Norfolk Police has referred itself to the police watchdog after four bodies were discovered at a property.
The force has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) over a 999 call made by a man from the address in Costessey, near Norwich, about an hour before four bodies were discovered on Friday.
The force said that two referrals have been made to IOPC “as per standard procedure, due to previous police contact.”
A spokesman from the force said that formal identification has not yet taken place. However, they confirmed two children were among the four people found dead at the property on Allan Bedford Crescent.
Officers in attendance at a property in Costessey
PA
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Burgess said: “We’ve had a heavy police presence in the area since yesterday morning and there’s understandably concern in the local community.
“However, their help and support in the investigation has been unwavering and on behalf of everyone involved in this devastating incident, we’re extremely grateful for that.
“We’re aware of commentary on social media and in news media, however, I would emphasise that formal identification is yet to take place.
“As I said yesterday, we believe the man and two children lived at the address, and while the woman was staying there, she wasn’t a permanent resident.”
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An appeal has been launched for anyone who was in the area around Allan Bedford Crescent
PA
Officers attended an address in Allan Bedford Crescent shortly before 7am on Friday, January 19 after a member of the public called police concerned for the welfare of people inside.
Emergency services arrived on scene at around 7.15am and forced entry to the address and found the bodies of a man, aged 45, a woman aged 36 and two young girls.
Norfolk Constabulary has confirmed officers attended the property on December 14 last year in relation to a missing person enquiry.
An appeal has been launched for anyone who may have been in the Allan Bedford Crescent area yesterday morning who may have seen or heard anything that could assist enquiries to come forward.
Bishop of Norwich Rev Graham Usher said he wanted to offer “Prayers for all impacted by this tragic news, especially the wider family and people from Costessey.”
He added: “I’ve spoke to our local clergy who are offering support in the communities they serve and will be opening churches for those who want to come and pray or talk.”
Officers are expected to remain in the area over the weekend while the investigation continues.
