A dad who was killed in his own home in a shock suspected Christmas Day attack has been pictured and named for the first time.
Louis Price, in his 30s, died on Christmas day following what police believe was an early morning attack at the home where he lived with his parents in Norton Canes, Staffordshire. Staffordshire Police said in a statement that officers were called to the home in the sleepy English village following a report that a man had suffered a cardiac arrest.
They attended the property on Elm Road, Norton Canes, at around 3.25am on Wednesday, where they found Mr Price gravely injured. The dad died at the scene despite paramedics' best efforts. Investigators have since arrested a 33-year-old woman from Cannock on suspicion of murder, and she is in custody.
Residents living in a home two doors down from he property in which Mr Price was found told the Daily Mail online they "heard something" at around 4.30am on Christmas Day that "sounded serious". When they looked outside, the woman, who asked not to be named, said she saw "emergency services were everywhere".
She added that her heart "goes out" to the man's parents, who were told news of his death while taking an annual holiday. She said: "His poor parents were away on holiday when it happened. They usually go away to the Maldives for Christmas and that may have been where they were.
"They will be absolutely devastated and my heart goes out to them." The woman said the community has been rocked by the news, adding: "It has shocked and saddened the whole little community here. It is beyond belief."
People have shared heartfelt tributes to Mr Price and his family online since the news broke this week. One social media user said the dad was "a beautiful guy", with another adding: I am in utter shock this has happened! You didn’t deserve this. Always there when I needed you! Thankyou for always having my back and making me laugh!" And a third added: "RIP to Louis Price another good lad gone too early."
Another user posting on Facebook paid tribute to the dad, adding they were "shocked" by the news. They wrote: "Rest in peace Louis Price. Proper shocked me this one." Police have erected a scene at the address as the investigation continues which they expect will "remain for a number of days", and a post-mortem was scheduled to take place earlier today
Investigators have also issued an appeal for knowledge of the incident, asking people to contact them via the police non-emergency number 101 or the Major Incident Public Portal if they heard anything. Anyone who wishes to provide information anonymously can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.