A HEARTBROKEN partner has made an emotional appeal to find the people who killed the love of her life.

Murdoch Brown, 31, was stabbed in Buffett Way, Colchester, shortly before 1.10am on Tuesday, May 7.

He died at Colchester Hospital.

Mr Brown left behind his partner Michelle Bunch and their two children, Bonnie and Leo Bunch, who are just nine and eight years old.

He was also close to her other three children, Jodie and Luke Croft and Bella Bunch.

Michelle, who described as Murdoch as the love of her life, has now made a heartfelt appeal: “He was kind, caring and loving. He loved his kids, they just idolised him – like a love that he’s never properly had before.

“When I found out what happened, it’s just totally broken my family. My kids are never going to be the same ever again. I just don’t think we’ll ever get over this, I really don’t.

“The kids don’t sleep, they have nightmares. They don’t want to go to school, they just feel scared, they don’t understand why this happened to their dad.

“I’m trying to be strong for the kids but I’m breaking as well.

“We need closure. We need to know who’s done it, and why.”

Watch Ms Bunch's appeal here.

Gazette:

Michelle Bunch, her daughter Bella Bunch, and Murdoch Brown.​

Detective Chief Insp Stuart Truss, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “Murdoch’s life was taken in a needless and brutal way and I am determined to bring those responsible to justice. His family deserve that at the very least.

“I still believe that the answers to his murder lie within the community in and around Colchester.

“We believe his death could be linked to the sale of drugs and we understand that could make people feel afraid to come forward for fear of recriminations.

“There will also be people who are involved in criminality but my experience is that over time, relationships change and loyalties break down.

“I need people to recognise a man has lost his life and start thinking about where their loyalties lie.

"I need people to come forward with information to help us identify those responsible for his death.”

Earlier this week, police released an Efit image of a man they are looking to trace. 

Contact Mr Truss’ team on 101 or submit information online at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020119N81-PO1

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org.

A 30-year-old woman from Colchester was arrested on May 15 on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs. She was released under investigation while enquiries continue.