Tributes to man who died during disturbance in Spencers Croft, Harlow - 4 arrested now bailed

A MAN who died following an incident in Harlow has been described as “always having a smile on his face.”

Seventy-three year-old Alfred 'John' Bates died in Spencers Croft following reports of a disturbance there on the evening of 1 May.

In a tribute, his family said: “Alfred 'John' Bates was a beloved husband to his wife of 52 years, a devoted father of two, a loving grandfather to his two grandchildren that he raised and his three great grandchildren.

“He was a well known and loved member of the community who always had a smile on his face and always wanted to help in any way he could.

“He will be truly missed by his family, friends and all that knew him. He will be forever in our hearts and will never be forgotten.”

Another man was injured during the incident (crime scene above) and was taken to hospital.

Four people were arrested in connection with the incident and have all now been released on bail.

A 26 year-old man and a 16 year-old boy have been bailed until 19 May.

A 43 year-old man and a 47 year-old man have been released on bail until 27 May.

Leading the investigation, DCI Louise Metcalfe, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “We would like to speak to anyone who saw the incident in Spencers Croft.

“We would also like people to check their doorbell footage and dash cams to see if they have captured anything that may help the investigation.

“I would urge anyone with information to come forward and contact us as soon as possible.”

If you have any information, you can submit a report online at https://www.essex.police.uk or use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am-11pm.

Or call 101 and quote Operation Napier or incident 1165 of 1 May.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.