A mother and her two children have been found dead at a property in Great Denham, Bedfordshire.
They were found after officers forced their way into a house in Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, near Bedford, on Monday, according to Bedfordshire Police.
A suspect who was known to the victims is believed to have left the country, Bedfordshire Police said.
The property where searches are taking place appears to be surrounded by the grounds of a former golf course.
Around a two-minute walk from the house is The Bedford, an abandoned golf clubhouse, and the area of grass close to the property appears to have been part of a golf course.
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Assistant Chief Constable John Murphy said: ‘This is a deeply distressing incident in which a mother and her two children are believed to have been murdered.
‘Our thoughts are first and foremost with all those affected. We recognise that this will cause concern in the local community and beyond.
‘This is the early stages of what is an incredibly complex investigation. We are committing all necessary resources to establish exactly what has happened and to find the person responsible.’
Police said the suspect was known to all three victims, and there is no wider risk to the public.
The police added: ‘We will be increasing the police presence in and around the area to support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents.
‘I would ask anyone who may have information about this incident, or who may have heard or seen any suspicious activity in Carnoustie Drive, particularly on Friday and Saturday, to please come forward to police as soon as possible. Any information, no matter how small, could help our investigation.’
Jim Weir, the Ward Councillor for Great Denham- Community Matters, said: ‘This has been a horrific and deeply distressing incident in Great Denham, and our thoughts are firmly with all those affected. I have spoken directly with the Chief Constable, and while the details are truly devastating, our community needs to have clear and accurate reassurance.
‘The suspect was known to all three family members involved. While we must avoid speculation, Bedfordshire Police have confirmed that there is no information to suggest any wider risk to the public.
‘I know how shocking this is for our community, and it is natural for people to feel unsettled. But based on everything the police have shared, this appears to be an isolated and contained incident.
‘Please allow the police the space they need to carry out their work, and if you have concerns or information, do contact them directly. Great Denham is a strong and supportive community, and we will rally around one another in the days ahead.’
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