'He did not take his own life': Loveridge family speaks out
As online speculation swirls around the death of 22-year-old Stephen Loveridge, his family have issued a public statement rejecting suggestions of suicide, saying "the autopsy will tell the truth."
Why it matters: The body of a man found in Ipswich on Tuesday, 10 November has been identified, subject to confirmation at a formal inquest, as Stephen, who had been reported missing since the weekend. His death is being treated as unexplained, and his family say they do not believe he took his own life.
What they're saying: A statement shared on social media on behalf of Stephen's father says the family rejects "all the speculation and all the comments on the news articles insinuating that Stevie took his own life." It continues: "We believe it was taken from him...the autopsy will tell the truth."
The statement adds: "And if anyone has any information on this you need to do the right thing," and ends: "Justice will be served."
The details: Stephen was last seen at approximately 22:30 on Thursday, 5 November, and was reported missing to police two days later. His body was discovered on Tuesday, 10 November. The coroner has been notified, and enquiries remain ongoing.
For context: Suffolk Police had earlier appealed for the public's help in finding Stephen, describing him as approximately 5 ft 9 in tall, of stocky build, with short light brown hair. He was believed to have been wearing black jogging bottoms, a white T-shirt, a zip-up jumper or jacket, and red and black trainers.
What's next: Police enquiries into the circumstances of Stephen's death are continuing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk Police, quoting CAD 108 from 7 November, via the force's online reporting form, by phone on 101, or via its live chat service. In an emergency, always call 999.
The bottom line: Stephen's family have gone public with their belief that he did not take his own life, as the investigation into his death continues and the coroner prepares to examine the case.
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