A murder inquiry was launched today in Southend after a man was stabbed to death near the seafront.

The local man aged about 28 was discovered at around 12.35am today in Outing Close.

A man was arrested near the scene, police revealed this morning, but officers are not sure of his involvement in the incident.

Covered up - the murder scene today Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Police were carrying out a detailed search for the weapon at the scene, near the Woodgrange Estate.

A police spokesman said: "The man had stab wounds and was taken to Southend Hospital but died. "Police urgently need to speak to anyone who was in the area."

The victim has not been identified, added the spokesman.

Det Supt Kevin Macey, of Southend CID, said from the scene: "We're keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of Outing Close between 10pm and 1am."

Call Southend police on 01702 431212.

Published Friday November 1, 2002

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