West Mercia officer murdered son then took own life
An officer from West Mercia Police who was found dead in his home in Kidderminister last Friday (August 13) murdered his three-year-old son and then took his own life, it has emerged.
Detective Constable David Louden, 39, worked in the criminal investigation department of the force, speciaising in burglary and drug offences. His body was discovered alongside that of his son, Harrison.
The late officer’s wife and wider family expressed “deep shock, grief and devastation” in the aftermath of their loss. In a statement, they said: “David was a kind, loving, considerate, amazing father, husband, son, brother, uncle, friend and colleague. Harrison was a happy, well-loved little boy. They will both be forever missed and loved.”
Assistant Chief Constable Damian Barratt said: “We, West Mercia Police, are now treating the death of Harrison as a suspected murder and the death of David as a suspected suicide. Post-mortems have now taken place and the investigation team, in conjunction with the Coroner, are satisfied that no other parties were involved.
“However, safeguarding reviews are now underway and there will be an inquest to provide an official determination, so we are unable to comment any further at this time in relation to the circumstances or the investigation.
“This is a dreadfully sad case and our thoughts are with David and Harrison’s family and friends. They have requested that they be allowed to grieve and will not be providing any further comment to the media at this time.”
