A serving police officer murdered his young son and then committed suicide at their Midland home, police believe.
David Louden, a 39-year-old serving West Mercia Police officer, and his three-year-old son Harrison were discovered dead at their home in Cairndhu Drive, Kidderminster, on August 13.
Assistant Chief Constable Damian Barratt said: “West Mercia Police are now treating the death of Harrison as a suspected murder and the death of David as a suspected suicide.
“David Louden and his three year-old son, Harrison, were tragically found dead at their home in Kidderminster on Friday 13 August 2021.
At the time the deaths were treated as unexplained and investigation was launched into the circumstances.
“Post-mortem examinations have now taken place and the investigation team, in conjunction with the coroner, are satisfied no other parties were involved.
“However, safeguarding reviews are now underway and there will be an inquest to provide an official determination, so we are unable to comment any further at this time in relation to the circumstances or the investigation.
“This is a dreadfully sad case and our thoughts are with David and Harrison’s family and friends. They have requested that they be allowed to grieve.”
he 39-year-old and his son were confirmed dead at the scene by paramedics. Police and paramedics arrived at 9.21am after being called to reports of concern about their welfare.
Neighbours said they had lived at the house for around six months and there were reports they returned home early from holiday.
Following the deaths, several bouquets of flowers were laid at the scene along with a soft plus elephant toy with the message “Rest in peace, sleep well. In our thoughts and prayers.”
Another message read: “To family and friends. So sorry for your loss – we’re all thinking of you. My heart goes out to you all, it’s such a tragedy. Both lives gone too soon.”
In a statement, Sarah Cooper the chair of West Mercia Police Federation, has said the tragedy has shocked the organisation.
She said: “We are all deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic and heart-breaking news. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those impacted by this devastating incident and our thoughts are very much with family, friends and colleagues.
The family said: “David was a kind, loving, considerate, amazing father, husband, son, brother, uncle, friend and colleague.
