A man in his 30s has been fatally stabbed inside a Lloyds Bank branch in Derby city centre, sparking a murder investigation and widespread community shock. Two men have been arrested in connection with the killing, which occurred in broad daylight on Tuesday afternoon.
What Happened at Lloyds Bank, Derby?
The incident occurred at approximately 2.35pm on 7 May at the Lloyds Bank on St Peter’s Street, Derby. Witnesses reported hearing screams and someone shout “it’s a bank robbery” before police arrived swiftly on the scene.
The victim, a local father of three, was pronounced dead at the scene. Derbyshire Police confirmed that formal identification is yet to take place, but the man’s family has been informed.
Arrests Made in Normanton
Just hours later, a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of murder at a property on Western Road in the Normanton area of Derby. A second man in his 30s was arrested at the same address on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both men remain in custody.
Victim Was a Businessman and Family Man
Local councillor Ajit Atwal, who knew the victim, described the loss as a tragedy. “Why a young hard-working man should be killed like this—a family man. He was a businessman and had worked hard to make his business a success,” he told the press. “It is a sad day for Derby.”
Community Reaction
Shock and concern have swept through Derby following the attack. One nearby shopkeeper told DerbyshireLive: “We know who the guy is, it’s really sad. Yesterday we heard screaming and then heard someone shouting ‘it’s a bank robbery.’ At that stage no-one knew it was a murder.”
Another local said: “A bloke in the bank being stabbed at 3pm in the afternoon? It’s unheard of. Derby city centre is becoming a no-go zone these days.”
Police Statement
Detective Inspector Tony Owen said: “We appreciate that this incident will have caused significant concern to the local community and we’d like to thank them for their patience and understanding. No-one else was hurt and while the investigation is at an early stage, at this time we are treating it as an isolated incident.”
Lloyds Bank Statement
A spokesperson for Lloyds Bank said: “We are deeply saddened by the incident at our Derby branch and our thoughts are with those affected. We are supporting our colleagues during this difficult time and will co-operate closely with the police.”
Ongoing Police Presence and Appeal for Witnesses
Police have confirmed there will be an increased presence in Derby city centre in the coming days. Officers are urging anyone with information to come forward.
How to Contact Police
Anyone with information is asked to call Derbyshire Police quoting reference 25000260624 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
