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Jack Abbott, MP for Ipswich, responds to fatal stabbing, urges public to assist investigation

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Jack Abbott, Member of Parliament for Ipswich, has issued a statement following the murder of a young woman in the town on Tuesday night. He praised emergency services and called for public assistance in the ongoing investigation.

The big picture: A murder investigation is underway after a woman in her twenties was fatally stabbed on Burrell Road shortly after 19:10 BST on 6 August. Local MP Jack Abbott has spoken out as the community comes to terms with last night's events.

Police in forensic suits could be seen at the scene on Burrell Road
The incident occurred on Burrell Road, IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

Key details:

  • Emergency services were called to the scene but were unable to save the victim

  • No arrests have been made yet

  • Police believe the victim and attacker were known to each other

What they're saying: In a statement, Jack Abbott said: "My thoughts are with the young woman, her loved ones and our wider Ipswich community following this appalling tragedy."

He added: "I want to thank the police and emergency services for their response, and I know they are working around the clock to ensure the person responsible faces the full force of the law."

The MP urged anyone with information to come forward, stating: "I urge anyone with information that may help the police progress this murder investigation to contact the police, but to refrain from online speculation whilst the investigation is still ongoing."

What's next: Police are continuing their investigation and are particularly interested in:

  • Dash cam footage from drivers in the area

  • CCTV or doorbell camera footage from nearby residents

  • Any footage captured between 18:30 and 19:30 BST on Tuesday 6 August

How to help: Anyone with information can contact Suffolk Police, quoting CAD 330 of 6 August 2024:

The bottom line: As Ipswich comes to terms with this tragedy, authorities will be working around the clock to bring the perpetrator to justice.

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Police granted extra time to question teenager suspected of murdering Billy McNicholl

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Detectives investigating the death of William "Billy" McNicholl have been granted an additional 24 hours to question a teenage murder suspect. The extension was approved by Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Thursday 23 January.

Why it matters: The extension gives detectives crucial additional time to question the suspect in what has become a complex murder investigation involving multiple suspects.

The big picture: McNicholl, 63, known as Billy, was found dead at his Hawthorn Drive home on 1 January. A post-mortem examination revealed he died from head injuries and a stab wound.

William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog
William "Billy" McNicholl and his dog

Latest developments:

  • After an initial 12-hour superintendent's extension, officers secured a warrant for a further 24 hours of questioning time.

  • The additional detention period will end on Friday 24 January.

  • The 17-year-old suspect has been held at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre since his arrest on Wednesday.

  • A woman in her 50s, previously arrested on suspicion of murder, remains on bail until 9 April.

Bottom line: Suffolk Constabulary's Major Investigation Team continues to appeal for witnesses. Anyone with information should contact police quoting reference 37/162/25, either through their Major Incident Portal or by calling 101.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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