Shocked Canvey residents have spoken out after a murder investigation was launched following the death of a man in a car park.

Essex Police received a call shortly before 1.45am on Saturday after the man in his 40s was found injured in the car park to Iceland in Furtherwick Road.

Officers say it is believed he had been assaulted near to The Haystack pub a short time earlier and despite the best efforts of emergency services, the man died at the scene.

Posting on Facebook residents spoke of their shock. One posted: "Terrible and shocking isn’t it."

Another added: "So sad , my heart goes out to the family."

Posting on Facebook another posted: "Such a horrible thing to happen."

Another added: "Thinking of the families at this sad time."

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Detectives investigating the murder have set up a special portal through which the public can submit information.

Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who’s leading the investigation, said: “We’re continuing to make good progress in our investigation.

“We have had a number of witnesses and people with information contact us and I want to thank them for coming forward.

“I still need anyone who saw something or has any information about what happened who hasn’t yet spoken to us to call us.

“The information you have could be vital to our enquiries. A cordon is still in place in the area, but I expect that to be removed once we’ve finished at the scene later today.

“I know it has caused disruption to the centre of the town, but it’s been really important to ensure we’re able to gather all evidence possible and I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding.”