A murder investigation has been launched after a man's body has been discovered with multiple injuries.

The body was found in Baylees Laundrette on Southend Road in Grays.

The incident happened at around 10pm yesterday night and resulted in the police cordoning off the road.

Police are still at the scene and a forensic tent has been set up.

A dog unit van is also at the scene.

A resident of Southend Road, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "I heard shouting from across the road.

"I waited a little bit to see what was going on as we hear shouting a lot around here.

"But it sounded aggressive and I heard a lot of different male voices, so I started to get worried. There was also banging.

"The police turned up quite quickly and when I heard the helicopter I knew it was serious.

"I was too scared to go outside until I knew it was safe."

Police arrested a 39-year-old man at the scene on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody for questioning. Enquiries are ongoing.

Detectives are asking witnesses who have yet to come forward to contact Brentwood Major Investigation Team on 101 or email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, contact independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.