West Yorkshire Police have launched a public appeal for information following the unexplained death of 53-year-old Darren Leach, whose body was discovered at a property in Beeston last week.
The investigation, led by the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, centres on a residence on Marsden Grove, where officers responded to concerns for a man’s safety at 8:29am on Wednesday, 19 March. Upon arrival, emergency services confirmed that Mr Leach had sadly passed away, and a small fire was found within the property.
Cause of Death Still Unknown
While the cause of death remains unconfirmed, police are treating the incident as unexplained and have not yet identified any suspects. The presence of the fire inside the home has added complexity to the case, and forensic work is ongoing to determine whether it played a role in the man’s death.
Detective Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson, who is leading the investigation, has appealed directly to the public for help in tracing Darren Leach’s movements prior to his death.
“We are currently treating Darren’s death as unexplained. To help with our enquiries, we would like to hear from any witnesses who might have seen Darren at any point on Tuesday 18 March.”
Police Outline Timeline of Interest
Detectives are particularly interested in Darren’s whereabouts on Tuesday, 18 March, the day before his body was found. The investigation is focused on the following areas and times:
- Morning hours: Possible sightings in Cross Flatts Park, a popular public space near Beeston Road.
- 12:00pm to 2:30pm: Darren may have been walking between the park and the parade of shops on Beeston Road.
- 2:30pm onwards: Officers are seeking any sightings or interactions involving Darren up until the time of his death the following morning.
Community Reacts to Increased Police Presence
The discovery has sparked concern among residents in Beeston, with visible police patrols around Marsden Grove providing reassurance amid the uncertainty. Social media users have shared their shock and expressed sympathy for Darren’s family, who are being supported by specialist officers during the investigation.
This appeal follows previous successful public engagement in major incidents, including a 2024 shooting in Cross Flatts Park, where witness input proved vital. Authorities are hopeful that the community will again come forward with crucial information.
How to Help
West Yorkshire Police are urging anyone who saw Darren Leach on 18 or 19 March, or who may have relevant CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage, to get in touch.
- Call 101, quoting log 273 of 19 March
- Use Live Chat via the West Yorkshire Police website
- To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org
