Neighbours' shock as murder investigation launched in Preston

Police were called to a house in Chatsworth Street in Fishwick in the early hours of Wednesday morning, where a 42-year-old woman was found with a serious head injury.

She was taken to Royal Preston Hospital by ambulance, where she later died.

She has been named locally as Humera Khan.

A 52-year-old man from Preston was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of murder.

A cordon was put up at the scene on the terraced street, before forensic officers wearing protective clothing erected a tent outside the front door.

Neighbours looked on as police carried out their investigation, with tributes paid to the victim.

One resident described Humera Khan’s death as a “tragedy” and said: “It’s just so sad to hear.”

He said: “They are just a normal family and it’s just so hard to believe.

“I’ve just had to leave work because I was so upset.

“She was really good at sewing Asian clothes - everyone would go to her, everyone knew her for doing that. She was really skilled at it.

“She came to see my wife to give condolences for her father’s death, that was a week ago, and now she has died herself.”

Another neighbour said the street was usually quiet, and said: “It’s a real shame.

“Nothing like that ever happens around here.”

Coun Martyn Rawlinson, who represents Fishwick ward on Preston Council, said: “It is always shocking when there’s violence on your doorstep.

“Obviously it will take time for the details to come out.

“I’m sure the police will be doing some reassurance work, and the councillors will be in the area and anyone can ring us. We will do anything we can for the people in the area if they’ve got any concerns.”

Readers also paid their respects and expressed their shock on social media.

Debbie Jane Hustings said on Facebook: “How sad, condolences to her family.”

And Dee Burke said: “So sad. Thoughts to all the victims family and friends.”