Four people were found dead at a property on Allan Bedford Crescent in Costessey, Norfolk, on Friday, January 19, prompting a police investigation. Norfolk’s Chief Constable Paul Sanford has promised full transparency amid increasing scrutiny of the police response.
The discovery followed a welfare concern raised by a neighbour who alerted police about those inside the house. Officers arrived at the scene at approximately 7:15 a.m. and, after failing to make contact, forced entry to the property.
It was revealed that a man inside the home had made a 999 call before 6 a.m., but police were not dispatched. This significant oversight has led Norfolk Constabulary to self-refer the case to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) for a comprehensive investigation.
Additionally, police had visited the same address on December 14 in connection with a missing person inquiry.
Chief Constable Paul Sanford expressed his condolences, stating, “This is a tragic and horrific incident. My thoughts and those of the entire constabulary remain with the family of those involved. We know this has caused shock and distress across the community and beyond.”
Regarding the investigation, Mr Sanford added, “The IOPC will independently review our response to the earlier 999 call. I am choosing my words carefully to protect the integrity of this process, not to hide anything.”
Mr Sanford also confirmed that, in addition to the IOPC investigation, there will be an inquest to examine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and police involvement. He assured that all questions about the force’s handling of the situation would be thoroughly addressed.
The constabulary is currently undergoing a routine inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services, which includes an assessment of 999 call responses. The Chief Constable has requested this inspection be expanded to provide further public reassurance.
As investigations continue, the Norfolk community is calling for answers and urgent reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Originally published by UKNIP.
