Man killed in Hugglescote named

A man who died after being found with serious injuries in Hugglescote has been named.

David Bettison, known as “Did”, was found in a park off Ashburton Road shortly after 2am yesterday (Friday 24 February). The 43-year-old was sadly pronounced dead around an hour later.

In a statement, his family said: “Everybody loved Did. He leaves a huge hole in our lives and no words can describe the heartache and endless cycle of disbelief we are trapped in.

“He was our beloved son, brother, dad, partner and friend. To never see his twinkling blue eyes, big grin and gait as he walked, will mean our lives will never be the same again.

“There is no surprise at the hundreds of messages we have received from everyone that knew him, saying how kind, funny and special he really was.

“But we need justice and plead with anyone who has any information that can help us to find out who has destroyed our family to please contact the police.”

A woman – aged 23 – and a 29-year-old man who was located by officers nearby, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder. The woman has since been released with no further action and the man remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Mark Parish, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) is the senior investigating officer. He said: “Our investigation to establish how Mr Bettison sustained his injuries is continuing and my most sincere condolences go to his family and those who knew him at this time.

“Officers have been in the area of Ashburton Road carrying our further enquiries and I’d ask anyone with information or footage that could help our investigation – but who has not yet spoken to police – to come forward. Anything you’re able to provide could help.”

You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ and quoting reference 23*116043.

Alternatively call 101.