Writtle murder: Man dies in double stabbing near village pub

Family and friends began arriving at Writtle at 11:00 GMT

BBC Vigil at stabbing location, Writtle — Family and friends began arriving at Writtle at 11:00 GMT

A man was stabbed to death and another injured in a "targeted attack" outside a village pub, police have said.

The stabbings happened at the Rose and Crown in Writtle, Essex, at 20:00 GMT on Friday.

The victim, named locally as Liam Taylor, 19, died at the scene. The second man, also 19, was discharged from hospital after treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.

Essex Police are questioning four men arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police were called at 20:00 GMT and remain at the scene

Police cars in front of the Rose and Crown — Police were called at 20:00 GMT and remain at the scene

Local vicar Tony Cant led a procession of mourners before holding a minute's silence

Procession at Writtle — Local vicar Tony Cant led a procession of mourners before holding a minute's silence

The Green was closed as officers investigate the attack and forensics examinations are being carried out.

More than 50 people, including Liam Taylor's mother Michelle, arrived at about 11:00 GMT to lay flowers and release balloons in tribute to him.

The vicar of All Saints' Church in Writtle, Rev Tony Cant, was asked to say a few words by Mr Taylor's grandmother.

He then led a minute's silence at 11:15 GMT.

Card at scene of Writtle stabbing — Many flowers have been left a the scene

Police cordon, Writtle — The pub remains cordoned off

Det Insp Greg Wood said: "Officers have been working throughout the night and are continuing today to take witness statements and gather information to help establish the circumstances around this tragic incident.

"We are treating it as a targeted attack based on our enquiries so far."