Three teenagers arrested on suspicion of murdering man in park in Essex

Central Park, Essex, where a 21-year-old man was fatally assaulted (Essex Police )

Police have arrested three teenagers, including a 14-year-old boy, on suspicion of the murder of a 21-year-old man in a Chelmsford park.

Emergency services were called to Central Park in the Essex city at about 7pm on Friday where the victim was found with critical injuries.

An Essex Police spokesperson said the 21-year-old died at the scene, despite the efforts of paramedics to save him.

He said the three suspects, aged 14, 17 and 18, were arrested a short while later and remained in custody for questioning.

The force spokesperson said: “A murder investigation has been launched and three arrests made following a fatal assault in Central Park, Chelmsford.

“We were called by the ambulance service to reports of an assault in the area at around 7pm on Friday June 12.

“Officers arrived within minutes and found a 21-year-old man with critical injuries. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

“His family have been informed and continue to receive support from specially trained officers.”

The force said that inquiries began immediately, which led officers to an address in Auckland Close, Chelmsford.

Arrests were made, and police continue to carry out searches. The three boys, all from Chelmsford, remain in police custody for questioning on suspicion of murder.

Detective inspector for Essex Police, Lydia George said: “This is a deeply distressing incident. A family is grieving, and our thoughts remain firmly with them at this incredibly difficult time.”

“I would call on the public and media to please respect their privacy as we continue the early stages of this investigation.”

“We are determined to get them answers and build as clear a picture as possible of the circumstances surrounding what has happened.”

She said the force had already made “significant progress” on its investigation and was not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

“There is no ongoing risk to the public. This took place in a busy public area, and while we have already received valuable assistance from the public, we continue to appeal for information. Even the smallest detail could prove crucial,” she said.

The force has asked anyone with information to contact them as soon as possible by submitting an online report, through its live chat service or by calling 101.