A DETECTIVE leading an investigation into the murder of a man on Canvey has said he does not believe there is an ongoing risk to the wider public.

Police received a call shortly before 1.45am on Saturday to reports of a man in his 40s found seriously injured in the car park to Iceland in Furtherwick Road.

It is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, the man died at the scene.

An area of the island including Furtherwick Road and Long Road was subsequently cordoned off while police investigate.

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Det Chief Insp Greg Wood has now provided an update on how the investigation is developing.

He said: “Our investigation is progressing well and we are building a picture of the circumstances which led up to this fatal assault.

“We believe those involved had been inside The Haystack pub earlier in the evening.

“I believe someone who was in the pub or lives locally local will know the identity of those responsible.

"I urge anyone to contact us or Crimestoppers with the information they have.

“At this stage, I believe the assault was a targeted attack and this incident does not pose a threat to the wider public.

READ MORE: Murder probe launched after man, 40s, dies in Canvey car park

“Our work at the scene will continue throughout today and into tomorrow but we are hoping to be able to reduce the size of the cordon later on today and reduce the disruption to the public.

“However, I expect a cordon to remain in place until tomorrow as our inquiries progress.

“I know this has caused disruption to the centre of Canvey on Saturday, but it has been to allow essential work to take place and I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding."

Since news of the murder investigation started to circulate throughout the Canvey community residents have reacted in shock.

Kerry Niekerk said: "This poor person and their family - it is absolutely heartbreaking.

"My husband was attacked before and I'm still mentally trying to deal with what we went through.

"So, I can't even begin to imagine what this poor family is having to deal with. Sending so much love to them all."

Danielle Low has also sent her well wishes to the family of the victim.

She said: "Thinking of the families at this sad time."

Claire Frankland added: "So sad. My heart goes out to the family."

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Essex Police have now launched an appeal urging anyone with information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident to contact them quoting incident 124 of 4 February.

Reports can be submitted on the police's website or by using the online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.

Visit essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about the force's reporting services. Alternatively, you can call 101.

If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.