Essex Police believe the death of a man at a laundrette in Grays could have been the result of a targeted aggravated burglary.

Early witness reports suggested that up to five suspects armed with weapons entered the property at around 10pm and carried out what appears to be a targeted aggravated burglary. 

During this incident, a man received serious injuries and was discovered dead at the scene. 

Police are still carrying out forensic investigations within the building.

This follows the murder investigation into the death of a man on Southend Road which was reported earlier this morning.

Although it is being treated as a murder investigation currently, police have said that self-defence is a possibility.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Pasmore, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Early witness accounts suggest that suspects entered the building and carried out an aggravated burglary with the living area. 

“During that incident, one of the suspects was fatally injured. The remaining suspects have then escaped with a number of weapons left at the scene.

“Self-defence is a line of enquiry in this case, however, it is important that we remain open minded and carry out a thorough investigation to establish the truth and the facts. We will do that as quickly as possible. 

“We are also trying trace next of kin, so it would be inappropriate for us to comment further.”

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

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV or dashcam footage is asked to contact Harlow 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.