MURDER squad detectives are probing the death of a teenager who is believed to have been attacked in Leigh Old Town.

Here's everything we know so far:

  • Police were contacted just after 6pm yesterday after an 18-year-old man was taken to hospital with stab wounds.
  • Sadly the teenager, who has not been named, died a short time later.
  • Initial stages of the police inquiry led police to Leigh Old Town where they believe the teenager was attacked near the Peterboat pub

READ MORE: Teen dies after being attacked in Leigh Old Town

  • Two people were arrested in connection with the investigation, police said.
  • Last night, officers continued to investigate the death in Leigh Old Town and appealed for people to approach them direct with any information. 
  • Officers thanked people who have come forward to far to help with their investigation.
  • A number of residents posted on social media, suggesting groups of youths were meeting up in Leigh Library Gardens. A witness claimed they overeheard one of the youths making remarks about "shanking" someone. 

While there is no suggestion of any connection, families in Leigh Old Town have long complained of youths gathering, breaching Covid-19 rules and causing chaos. 

Last June, campaigners called for booze-free zones on beaches and the sea wall to reclaim Old Leigh from "hordes" of people who left mountains of litter following a party.

Echo: Old Town - the mess left last JuneOld Town - the mess left last June

A petition on 38 degrees - a petition platform - is calling on Southend Council to act over fears of more antisocial gatherings in the Old Town as the Covid-19 lockdown eases. 

Southend Council later said it would consider special orders for the Old Town to crack down on the issues.

Last night, Essex Police were out in the Old Town painstakingly carring out their investigation into thd death of the teenager. 

A spokesman said: "Anyone who saw what happened or has mobile phone, CCTV or dash cam footage, is asked to speak to officers on scene.

"You can also contact us online at www.essex.police.uk where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.

"Alternatively, you can call 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk

"Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org

"Please quote incident 1011 of today's date when contacting us so we can pass information on to investigating officers as quickly as possible."