DETECTIVES have today launched a murder investigation after a man was found seriously injured in a service lane at West Hoe in Plymouth.

The man was discovered off Grand Parade after police were called by the ambulance service at around 6.40am on Wednesday, October 21.

Despite being treated by paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives from Devon and Cornwall Police’s Force Major Crime Investigation Team are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the man’s identity and the circumstances surrounding his death.

A cordon remains in place while forensic examinations and searches are carried out, with several road closures affecting the area, including Grand Parade and Garden Crescent.

A cordon remains in place while forensic examinations and searches are carried out, with several road closures affecting the area, including Grand Parade and Garden Crescent
A cordon remains in place while forensic examinations and searches are carried out, with several road closures affecting the area, including Grand Parade and Garden Crescent (Submitted)

Residents and visitors can expect to see a significant police presence throughout the day as officers review CCTV footage and conduct house-to-house enquiries.

Detective Inspector Chris Lithgow said the investigation was progressing at pace but remained at an early stage.

He said: “Our investigation is at an early stage but moving at a significant pace as we work to establish the circumstances surrounding this man’s death.”

Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area between 6pm on Tuesday, October 20, and 6.40am the following morning to come forward if they witnessed anything suspicious.

Detectives are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage that could help their investigation.

DI Lithgow added: “There will be an ongoing police presence in the area while enquiries continue and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with officers at the scene.”

He also urged people not to speculate about the circumstances surrounding the death, particularly on social media, and said further information would be released when possible.

Anyone with relevant information, images or footage can submit it through the Major Incident Public Portal, or contact police on 101, quoting reference 50260282293.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers online at crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555111.