29/04/2013

Couple Found Dead In Essex Hotel

A couple have been found dead in an Essex hotel pool.

The bodies of the man and woman, believed to be in their 30s and 20s respectively, were found at the luxury Down Hall Country House Hotel in Hatfield Heath on Saturday.

Police have said they believe the couple were staying at the hotel together, but their relationship is now a major focus of the inquiry.

Chief Inspector Nick Lee said the circumstances were unusual but he was sure no one else was involved.

Police are investigating whether the two people, who lived in the London area, had been part of any of the wedding parties or other events at the hotel over the weekend. It is understood a number of functions are believed to have been taking place at the hotel at the weekend, including weddings, birthday parties and christenings.

Ch Insp Lee added: "The two people were staying together at the hotel but we do not know their relationship.

"We are interviewing people who were at the hotel over the weekend as part of our investigation to see if there are any witnesses or anyone with information.

"It is an early part of the investigation but we do not believe anyone else is involved."

A post-mortem examination is due to be carried out after which the couple's identities will be revealed.

The couple were found at 7.35pm on Saturday and the hotel's management said staff dived into the pool to try and save the couple. Police said the man and woman were pronounced dead at the scene.

(JP/MH)


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