Police return to murder scene in Beeston and appeal for public's help

Detectives investigating the murder of a man in Beeston returned to the scene today as they continue to appeal to the public for help.
By Abbey Maclure
Published 9th Jan 2020, 20:32 BST
Updated 9th Jan 2020, 20:35 BST
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Keith Harrower, who was also known locally as Joshua French, was stabbed outside the Premier supermarket on Dewsbury Road.

It happened shortly before 5.30pm on Thursday, December 12 and he was pronounced dead in hospital.

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Two men have been charged with his murder and are currently remanded in custody pending further hearings.

A police scene on Dewsbury Road, Beeston, the day after the fatal stabbingA police scene on Dewsbury Road, Beeston, the day after the fatal stabbing
A police scene on Dewsbury Road, Beeston, the day after the fatal stabbing

Detectives from West Yorkshire Police's Homicide and Major Enquiry Team returned to the area at the same time today, hoping to speak to people who may have witnessed the incident.

There was a large number of people in the area at the time of the stabbing, particularly at a bus stop opposite the scene, and officers are looking to trace as many of these people as possible.

-> READ MORE: 'The kids are horrified': Beeston residents shocked after fatal Dewsbury Road stabbingSenior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Emma Winfield said: “While two men have already been charged over the murder, we are still working to build up a full picture of the circumstances in which Keith was killed and the events leading up to him being fatally assaulted.

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“The incident took place in a main high street at teatime and the area was very busy at the time.

Keith Harrower, who was also known locally as Joshua French, was fatally stabbed on Dewsbury RoadKeith Harrower, who was also known locally as Joshua French, was fatally stabbed on Dewsbury Road
Keith Harrower, who was also known locally as Joshua French, was fatally stabbed on Dewsbury Road

"We have already spoken to some witnesses but we are still keen to hear from as many people as possible to help give us a complete understanding of what occurred.

“Keith’s family are understandably devastated at their loss and we are continuing to do everything we can to get them the answers they need about the circumstances of his murder.

“We would still like to hear from anyone who was in the area and witnessed any part of the incident, no matter how insignificant they think what they saw or heard might be.”

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Anyone with any information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact them via 101 quoting Operation Panberry or on online via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat

Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.