The number of people arrested as part of an ongoing murder investigation has now risen to 10, after a man died in a "disturbance" in Wells.

Officers - including armed police - were called to the residential area of Merlin Drive at 4.25pm on Saturday (March 23) after a 'disturbance' involving several people was reported.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police has confirmed two men in their 30s suffered knife wounds and one man died from serious injuries.

Officers cordoned off areas on Wookey Hole Road over the weekend with a drone utilised to assist officers with their investigations.

The force has identified the victim as Jonathan Roper, from Glastonbury who has been described as a "devoted family man" by relatives.

In an update today (Tuesday, March 26), police confirmed seven men and three women, all from the Somerset area, have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in police custody.

A police spokesman previously stated on Sunday (March 24) eight people were arrested by officers.

Family tribute

Jonathan Roper, 34, from Glastonbury
Jonathan Roper, 34, from Glastonbury

In a statement released by the police, Mr Roper's family urged anyone with any information about his death to contact police.

A statement reads: "Jonathan was a devoted family man much loved by his family and friends, he will be greatly missed," they said.

"We as a family are very grateful for the assistance we have been given by the police and fully support their investigation.

"We would encourage anyone with information that would assist the investigation to inform the police.

"All of Jonathan's family respectfully request that we are given privacy to grieve the loss of our loved one at this very difficult time."

Police will "do everything we can to obtain justice for Jonathan and his family"

The scene on Wookey Hole Road, Wells, on Sunday morning (March 24), after a murder investigation was launched
The scene on Wookey Hole Road, Wells, on Sunday morning (March 24), after a murder investigation was launched

Detective Chief Inspector James Riccio said investigations into the circumstances of Mr Roper's death were continuing.

"We fully appreciate this incident has shocked local residents and are aware it will deeply affect those who knew Jonathan," he said.

"I'd like to reassure everyone we're carrying out a thorough investigation and will do everything we can to obtain justice for Jonathan and his family."

Police confirmed armed officers utilised in arrests in previous statement

A police cordon in place at Wookey Hole Road, Wells

In a previous statement issued on Sunday (March 24), Avon and Somerset Police said: "A murder investigation has been launched after a man in his 30s died in Wells yesterday (Saturday, March 23).

"At 4.25pm we received a report of a disturbance at a property on Merlin Drive involving a number of people.

"Officers attended and found two men with knife wounds on nearby Wookey Hole Road.

"Sadly, despite the best efforts of the ambulance service, one of the men died of his injuries at the scene.

"A post-mortem examination and formal identification will be arranged in due course. The man’s next-of-kin have been informed.

"The injuries sustained by the other man, who is also in his 30s, aren't life threatening or life changing but he continues to receive medical treatment at hospital for them.

"Armed officers were deployed to the scene and assisted their patrol colleagues with carrying out a number of arrests.

"The police helicopter was also used in the operation.

"In total, six men and two women, all from the Somerset area, were detained in connection with the incident and currently remain in police custody."

Community rocked by murder probe

Wells has been rocked by the death with many resident expressing their shock and sadness.

Mayor of Wells, who lives in Wookey Hole Road, called the incident "horrifying" and praised the emergency services for their "immediate response".

She told Somerset Live: "This is a horrifying incident.

"My sympathies go to the families and friends of the victims, especially the young man who sadly succumbed to his injuries last night.

"I would like to praise the emergency services for their immediate response; I sincerely hope that the perpetrators are brought swiftly to justice.

Mayor of Wells, Celia Wride. She praised emergency services for their "immediate response"
Mayor of Wells, Celia Wride. She praised emergency services for their "immediate response"

"The incident took place in a very quiet residential area of Wells, not far from my own doorstep, and I know that local residents are very concerned, but I hope that they, like me are reassured by the continuing presence of the Police at the scene."

The Blue School's headteacher, Mark Woodlock, has called for calm as he confirmed PCSOs will be deployed to the school's entrances.

He said on the school's website that the officers will provide a "visible presence for students" as police continue to investigate the murder.

In a statement he said: "You are probably aware that there was a significant police incident in Wells on Saturday afternoon.

Armed police were involved in the initial response, as a murder investigation is launched in Wells, Somerset
Armed police were involved in the initial response, as a murder investigation is launched in Wells, Somerset

"Unfortunately, a man has died as a result of his injuries.

"We have stayed in close contact with the police throughout the weekend in order to be reassured that our students are safe.

"Whilst clearly this is a significant incident for them, the police have sought to keep us as informed as they can.

"In order to help students feel safe, additional PCSOs will be deployed to the school entrances on Monday to provide a visible presence for students.

"Staff will be aware of the possible impact on students.

"Should you have any specific concerns regarding your child and this incident, please do not hesitate to contact the Pastoral Office at school."

I saw what happened or have information that may aid the investigation - what should I do?

Forensic investigators were seen taking photos of a crime scene in Wells on March 24
Forensic investigators were seen taking photos of a crime scene in Wells on March 24

 

Police have advised anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information which could help their investigation to call 101.

When connected, tell the call handler you are phoning in relation to log 760 of Saturday, March 23.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form at  www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Did you know Jonathan Roper? Would you like to share a memory or tribute? Did you see what happened? Do you have any photos or video of the scene? Get in touch: michael.taylor@reachplc.com , tweet @JournoMikeT or call 01935 709742.       

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