Murder Probe Launched After Man Found Dead Near Middlesbrough Park
A chilling murder investigation is underway after the body of a man was found in woodland close to Flatts Lane Country Park, Normanby, Middlesbrough.
Victim Identified as Tomasz Dembler, 39
Police have named the victim as 39-year-old Tomasz Dembler from Poland. Tomasz had lived in the UK for two decades, recently residing in Middlesbrough and previously in Darlington, County Durham.
A devoted father, Tomasz leaves behind family in both Poland and the UK. Detectives are digging into his life and movements over the past few months, particularly in the days before his death.
Detectives Believe Murder Was Targeted
Specialist officers are in contact with Tomasz’s family, offering support during this devastating time.
Investigators say Tomasz was likely killed sometime between mid-March and when his body was found on April 12, at around 3.25pm. The lead detective believes this was a targeted killing and is focusing on this as a key line of inquiry.
Police Urge Public Help to Crack The Case
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Murphy-King said: “We have a team of homicide investigators looking into every possible line of enquiry to piece together what has happened to Tomasz. Our investigation is at an early stage, and there is still much work to do, but I’m confident we have the right specialists working on this case.
“We’re providing support to the family, in what is a horrendous time for them and my thoughts are with them.
“We know that local people, including the Polish community, will be understandably shocked and worried about what has happened to Tomasz. Public safety is always our top priority and there is no specific information at this time that there is a wider threat to the local community.
“Forensic officers remain at the scene and neighbourhood officers are carrying out patrols of the area. Information from the public is key in understanding what happened to Tomasz and I appeal for people to come forward to us, or completely anonymously through Crimestoppers.”
- Did you know Tomasz or speak with him in March or April?
- Have you seen anything suspicious near Flatts Lane Country Park around that time?
- Do you have dashcam or CCTV footage showing unusual activity in the area?
- Any detail, no matter how small, could be crucial.
If you have information, contact Cleveland Police via mipp.police.uk under the Cleveland Police section, call 101, or reach out anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
