A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a man on Canvey Island.
Police received a call shortly before 1.45am today to reports of a man in his 40s found injured in the car park to Iceland in Furtherwick Road.
It is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, the man died at the scene.
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An area of the island including Furtherwick Road and Long Road has been cordoned off while police investigate.
Police said they anticipate there will be disruption to the centre of Canvey throughout today.
Det Chief Insp Greg Wood, who is leading the investigation, said: “I want to extend my condolences to the family of the man who has died.
“There is a team of officers and staff working hard to establish what happened to him and we are starting to build a picture of the circumstances around the assault.
“If you saw what happened, or have any other information about the assault then I need you to contact us.”
Since news of the murder investigation started to circulate throughout the Canvey Island community residents have reacted in shock.
Kerry Niekerk said: "This poor person and their family - it is absolutely heartbreaking.
"My husband was attacked before and I'm still mentally trying to deal with what we went through.
"So, I can't even begin to imagine what this poor family is having to deal with. Sending so much love to them all."
Danielle Low has also sent her well-wishes to the family of the victim.
She said: "Thinking of the families at this sad time."
Claire Frankland added: "So sad. My heart goes out to the family."
Essex Police have now launched an appeal urging anyone with information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident to contact them quoting incident 124 of 4 February.
Reports can be submitted on the police's website or by using the online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.
Visit essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about the force's reporting services. Alternatively, you can call 101.
If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.
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