The family of an elderly couple who were fatally stabbed at their home have paid tribute to them as a devoted pair who were “inseparable” throughout more than six decades of marriage.
Haji Ismail Ahmed Leli, 80, and his wife, Hajiyani Fatima Ismail Leli, 78, are understood to have been discovered dead by their carers.
Police were called to a terraced property in Blackburn, Lancashire, on Monday, where the couple were found suffering from stab wounds. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Lancashire Police have launched a murder investigation. A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.
In a tribute released today, the family said: “On behalf of our entire family, we are heartbroken to share that we have lost our parents, the oldest and most cherished members of our family.
“Married and inseparable for more than 60 years, they were the very heart of who we are – devoted to one another, loved by everyone who knew them.
“Their loss left a void that words cannot describe, and we are still coming to terms with what has happened.
“At this incredibly difficult time, we wish to express our deepest gratitude to the police for their diligence, professionalism and compassion.”
Police and forensics continue to investigate the scene in Blackburn, where an elderly couple were found stabbed to death in their home
They added: ‘We are also grateful to our local councillors and to the wider community, whose kindness and support have meant a great deal to us.’
It continued: ‘In particular, we thank Masjide Quwwatal Islam, which has been our source of strength, comfort and practical support to our family throughout.
‘We now ask, respectfully that our family’s privacy be respected, so that we may grieve and mourn in accordance with our faith.
‘We would be grateful for the space and understanding of the media and the public during this period.’
Today the street remains cordoned off, and a forensic tent remained in front of the house, while officers searched for clues.
Neighbours woke up to a large police presence with detectives carrying out door-to-door enquiries.
One couple, who live in the next block of Hardman Street, said: ‘When we got up, just after 8am, we looked outside and it was all there then. It was a bit of a shock.’
Terence, who has lived in Hardman Street for ’30 years’, said police had allowed him inside his home after returning from work to discover a crime scene had been put in place.
He said: ‘It used to be quiet round here but it’s not anymore.’
Another resident said the couple who lived in the property were elderly and were members of the nearby mosque. He described them as ‘very private’.
In a statement issued on Monday, Lancashire Constabulary said: ‘Lancashire Police have launched a murder investigation after two people were sadly found dead inside a house in Blackburn.
‘Our officers were called by the North-West Ambulance Service at 8.22am today to an address in Hardman Street, to a report two people had been found with stab injuries.
‘Very sadly, a man and woman were both pronounced deceased at the scene. Our thoughts are with their loved ones at this distressing time.
‘They have not yet been formally identified and a Home Office post-mortem examination will take place in due course.
The force said an increased police presence will remain in the area to conduct enquiries and provide reassurance.
They added: ‘Whilst this is a fast-moving investigation, we are at the early stages of establishing exactly what has occurred and why. Detectives are continuing to work to establish a motive for this tragic incident; however, we don’t believe there is a wider threat to the community.
‘In the meantime, if you saw or heard anything suspicious in the area over the last 24 hours, or have captured any CCTV, dashcam, mobile phone or doorbell footage that could help us with our enquiries, please make contact with our officers as soon as possible.’
READ MORE: Couple are found stabbed to death at home in Blackburn: Man in his 40s is arrested
