A man has been arrested for murder and a woman for assisting an offender following the death of a canal worker on a towpath in Aylesbury.
The man who died was working for the Canal and River Trust on the Grand Union Canal near Broughton in the town at around twenty past midday Monday, April 26, 2021, when he received fatal injuries.
Members of the public called the emergency services and when police and ambulance crews arrived they found the victim with serious injuries. He died at the scene.
This morning/Tuesday (April 17) Richard Parry, the Chief Executive of the Canal and River Trust, said: “One of our team on the Grand Union Canal died yesterday on the towpath in Aylesbury in an incident which is the subject of a police murder investigation.
“We are deeply distressed and are sharing the police’s appeal urging anyone with information, no matter how insignificant, to come forward and assist the investigation.
“I am sure you will join me in offering our thoughts and sincerest condolences at this extremely distressing time for his family and our colleagues.”
Today the towpath was taped off. Numbered yellow markers were placed by the police on the path where evidence had been found.
Thames Valley Police said the man’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by Family Liaison Officers.
A 34-year-old man, of no fixed address, was arrested early this morning/Tues on suspicion of murder. A 41-year-old woman from Birmingham has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and perverting the course of justice.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Andy Shearwood, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “We need the public’s help to establish what happened on the canal path of the Grand Union Canal near Broughton in Aylesbury at about 12.20pm.
“We were called to an assault near to Bridge 14, where a man was found with serious injuries.
“The canal path is a very popular leisure route for walkers, runners and cyclists, especially on a sunny day like today. Therefore, I would appeal to anyone who was in the area, who saw or heard anything unusual, to contact the force.”
“The easiest way to contact us is by calling 101, or visiting our website, quoting investigation reference number 845 (26/4)
“If you would prefer, alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers via their website or on 0800 555 111 and remain anonymous.”
