A murder investigation has been launched after a mother and her two children were found dead at a property near Bedford.

On Monday, Bedfordshire Police forced entry into an address on Carnoustie Drive, Great Denham, after receiving reports the family had not been seen for several days.

Officers said they had identified a suspect, who was known to all the victims, but they believed they have left the country.

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.”

“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,” he added.

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