THREE men from St Helens were questioned on suspicion of assisting an offender after police in Lancashire launched a murder investigation.

Michael Keen, 42, of Darwen, died from multiple stab wounds.

Officers had been called by the ambulance service to Hazel Avenue, Darwen, at about 4.15pm on Thursday following reports Mr Keen and a 42-year-old woman had been stabbed.

Police have since charged Daniel Bamford, 18, of Harvey Lane, Golborne, with murder and Section 18 – wounding with intent.

However, a series of arrests were also made as part of the investigation.

Three men, aged 19, 23 and 44, were arrested on Friday, August 26, in St Helens on suspicion of assisting an offender.

A 17-year-old boy and 33-year-old man from Liverpool were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.

They have all been bailed until October 25.

The 42-year-old woman who was wounded has been released from hospital.

Detective Supt Paul Withers, from the Force Major Investigation Team, said: “A man has sadly lost his life and my thoughts remain with Mr Keen’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“While we have made a number of arrests and since charged a man, we would continue encouraging people to come forward and help with our inquiries.

“If anyone has any information about this incident that could help us I would urge them to either speak to a local officer or to call us direct.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting incident reference 917 of August 25.

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers.org.