Perilous Times
12 December 2011 Last updated at 10:56 ET
UK: murder investigation has started after the discovery of
the bodies of a couple and their two young sons at a house
in Leeds.
A murder investigation has started after the discovery of the
bodies of a couple and their two young sons at a house in Leeds.
BBC - The bodies were found in a fire-damaged bedroom at a
detached house in Sheridan Way, Pudsey, on Sunday evening.
Richard Smith, 37, and Clair Smith, 36, were found along with Ben
Smith, nine, and one-year-old Aron Smith.
It is understood that West Yorkshire Police are not looking for
anyone else in connection with the deaths.
Det Supt Paul Taylor, from West Yorkshire's Homicide and Major
Enquiry Team, said: "Initially, we had concerns regarding the
release of harmful chemicals or gases.
"Following testing, we no longer have any concerns with regards to
those working at the scene and we will continue our investigations
today.
"Inquiries are at an early stage and I would ask anyone with
information about the incident to contact the Homicide and Major
Enquiry Team."
'Beautiful boys'
Post-mortem examinations are due to be carried out later.
Dean Turnbull, a friend of the Smith family who had known them for
about 15 years, said he was "in shock" over their deaths.
He said the Smiths were "a lovely family with lovely kids".
Friends of the family brought floral tributes to the scene of the
tragedy
Mr Turnbull's wife, Sara, was in tears as she left flowers at the
police cordon.
The message on her bouquet said: "You were such a beautiful
family. All our love to you. We can't believe you are all gone."
Mr Smith's cousin, Gary Tempest, said: "It is so unbelievable this
has happened.
"They were the perfect family."
Family friend Sarah Wilson was in tears as she laid flowers.
She said she once held Aron in her arms as her sister was a
neighbour, and added: "Such beautiful little boys. Both of them."