Murder probe launched into nursing home deaths

LONDON, Nov 7 (Reuters) Police in Leicestershire said they had launched a murder inquiry after the bodies of two women were discovered at a nursing home.

They were found by staff at the Hayes Park Nursing Home in the city shortly before 4 am.

''Our enquiries are still in the very early stages but given the evidence at the scene we are treating this as a double murder,'' said Detective Superintendent Chris Thomas.

''Much police work is already going on at the nursing home to help in establishing the circumstances surrounding the deaths.'' Detectives have cordoned off part of the building to carry out forensic investigations and have spoken to staff and other residents to piece together the last movements of the victims, Thomas said.

''We do not yet know the full circumstances or motive behind this incident,'' he added.

''I do not want people to worry unnecessarily but personal safety is always important so I urge local people to be vigilant, keep their doors and windows locked and to report anything suspicious to the police.'' Post-mortems on the two bodies are due to take place later today.

Reuters nc kp2310