Investigation launched following death of 17-year-old boy in Linslade

An investigation has been launched following the death of a teenage boy in Linslade, near Leighton Buzzard, last night (Thursday).

Police were called at around 10.25pm to initial reports of a suspicious activity in Soulbury Road, Linslade.

Emergency services attended and found a teenage boy unresponsive. First aid was provided however he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

His next of kin have been informed.

A man was arrested at the scene and is currently in custody on suspicion of murder.

Three other men were also arrested in connection with the incident which is being investigated by the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit.

Detective Inspector Caeva Taylor said: “This is an incredibly tragic incident in which a 17-year-old boy has lost his life and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this unimaginably difficult time.

“We currently have one person in custody on suspicion of murder, and three other men are also assisting us with our enquiries.

“Our team is working hard to establish what has led to the boy’s death and we understand the concern this will cause in the community.

“The initial 999 call to police was to report a possible break-in in progress, however our enquiries so far have found no evidence whatsoever that the victim was carrying out, or attempting to carry out, a burglary.

“We have been carrying out a number of enquiries today including reviewing CCTV and speaking to people in the area, and we’re urging the public to help us by letting us know any information they may have. In particular we’re urging anyone with any doorbell or CCTV footage to get in touch immediately.”

Anyone with information can visit beds.police.uk/ro/report or call 101 and quote reference Operation Breakwater.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org