Murder investigation launched after Flintshire man dies

A MURDER investigation has been launched after a young man died following a gang attack in Chester.

Chris Garwell, from Church Street in Connah’s Quay, died in hospital on Merseyside yesterday afternoon.

Mr Garwell, 23, was found collapsed close to the King Charles Tower on the City Walls just after 8pm a week ago. He had severe head injuries and lost his battle for life at just after noon yesterday.

Four men from the Chester area, one aged aged 20, one 17 and two 16, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They are in custody and have been interviewed by investigating officers who last night made an application to a Chester, Ellesmere
Port and Neston magistrate for more time to question them.

Sgt Jason Murray, for Cheshire Constabulary, said: “Cheshire Police have commenced a murder investigation after the 23-year-old man found unconscious on Chester City Walls on Thursday, June 3, died.

“Christopher Garwell, from Connah’s Quay, died at 12.09pm yesterday at the Walton Centre Hospital, Liverpool.

“The four men arrested remain in custody and have now all been arrested for Mr Garwell’s murder.

“It is believed the incident began in the area of Charlotte Court and continued until Mr Garwell collapsed on the City Walls near to King Charles Tower.

“Therefore Cheshire Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area between Charlotte Court and Chester City Walls, specifically near to King Charles Tower, or anyone with information to come forward and speak to us on 0845 458 0000, or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Detective Inspector Giles Orton, of the force’s major investigation team, who is leading the inquiry, is seeking further witnesses. He believes the people responsible for the attack were known to Mr Garwell.

It is also believed the victim had been drinking in the Blacon area and later in the city centre with friends from Blacon and Deeside.

Cheshire Police spokesman Shelley Williams added: “Several witnesses have been traced and spoken to and multiple lines of enquiry have now been explored by police, including the examination of CCTV footage.”