30 April 2012

Double Murder Suspect Arrested

Following the arrest on Sunday morning of double murder suspect James Allen police have appealed for people to check on any friends and relatives who could have come into contact him.

Detectives made the appeal after 36-year-old Allen was arrested early on Sunday after being spotted by an off-duty officer on his way to work in Leeds. He is being held on suspicion of murder in connection with the deaths of Colin Dunford, 81, in Middlesbrough and Julie Davison, 50, in Whitby.

Speaking at Cleveland police headquarters, temporary Detective Chief Superintendent Gordon Lang said there was no information that Allen was suspected of committing other offences.

But, as police retrace Allen's route from Middlesbrough through Whitby and Scarborough to Leeds, Lang added: "Please check on people, friends, relatives and let's make sure everybody is OK.

"In this inquiry we're investigating two deaths. Without a doubt, this is a dangerous man so I think it's prudent to ensure everybody's safe and well," he told a press conference.

(H/GK)