Halifax is reeling from the devastating loss of two young lives as Joshua Clark, aged 21, and Haidar Shah, aged 19, succumbed to injuries sustained in an assault on Commercial Street. The incident occurred around 03:48 on Sunday, prompting a police response to reports of three men assaulted, with Joshua and Haidar later passing away in the hospital.
The third man, who sustained a non-life-threatening injury, is now receiving treatment. Detectives from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET) have initiated a murder investigation into the deaths of Joshua and Haidar.
Heartfelt tributes have been issued by the grieving families. Joshua’s family described him as a kind and beautiful soul who brightened the lives of those who knew him, expressing profound devastation at the loss. The family requested privacy to grieve, emphasising the everlasting hole left in their hearts.
Similarly, the family of Haidar Shah memorialised him as a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and nephew, stating that a piece of their hearts has been lost forever. They expressed gratitude to Haidar’s friends for their love and respect, urging privacy during this difficult time and requesting refraining from posting videos on social media.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Holdsworth, Senior Investigating Officer, emphasised the ongoing nature of the investigation, encouraging witnesses or those with relevant footage to come forward. Two 18-year-old men have been released on bail, while a 19-year-old man remains in custody. An 18-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and is currently in police custody.
DCI Holdsworth expressed the commitment to support the grieving families and vowed to seek justice for Joshua and Haidar.
Anyone with information that may assist this investigation is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via 101, quoting Operation Pochard, reference number 215 of 1st October or online at http://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat.
Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
