Detectives are urging anyone with information on the murder of a "devoted dad" to come forward a week after his death.

Murdoch Brown, 31, was attacked in Buffett Way, Colchester, shortly before 1.10am on Tuesday, May 7.

Officers and paramedics were called to the scene but Mr Brown sadly died in hospital.

He died as a result of hypovolemic shock, due to blood loss from stab wounds to his legs.

A second man, aged 44, was also assaulted but not stabbed. He suffered minor injuries.

A large police presence was in place throughout the day whilst forensic investigations continued.

A path leading to the Salary Brook Nature Reserve was cordoned off and several blocks of flats in Buffett Way remained sealed off until the afternoon.

Tributes paid to loving father

In a statement, his family revealed his death had left them heartbroken.

They said: “Murdoch was a much-loved partner, son, brother and uncle.

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“He was a devoted father to his children and his family are heartbroken. They wish to grieve in peace.

“He will be very much missed by his family and friends.”

Police hunt two men seen running from murder scene

Police are hunting for two men seen running away from the scene of where Mr Brown was stabbed.

One was described as white, aged in his early 20s, and 5ft 6ins tall.

He was slim, unshaven, and wore a light grey Adidas tracksuit with a hooded top.

The other was described as black, aged about 17 and 5ft 6ins tall. He was very slim and wore a dark blue Adidas tracksuit with a hooded top.

Police appeal for 'drug dealing footage' in murder probe

Last week police said they believed his death may have been linked to drugs.

"We believe Mr Brown's death could potentially be linked to the sale of drugs" said Senior Investigating Officer DCI Daniel Stoten.

"We would like anyone who has either photographed or filmed drug dealing activity in the area to get in contact with us.

"We hope that these images could help us identify those responsible for Murdoch's death."

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Inspector insists residents are safe despite 'targeted' Greenstead murder

Colchester’s district commander, Chief Insp Rob Huddleston, confirmed extra officers would be deployed in the area

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He urged people to carry on going about their lives as normal.

He said: “We believe this was a targeted attack.

“There is absolutely no reason for the wider community to be worried about going about their lawful business.

“We have already got additional officers in the area."

Greenstead community can help bring those responsible for dad's murder to justice

The detective leading the investigation into the murder of a Colchester father says the community holds the key to solving the case.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Truss, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “I believe that the answers to who is responsible for Mr Brown’s death lie within the Greenstead community.

“I understand there may be people who are scared to come forward, but I urge them to please contact us, or Crimestoppers anonymously, if they have any information at all, however insignificant they think it might be.

“His children have lost their father and we are doing everything we can to find answers for his family.”

READ MORE: Police seek help from community

How can you help?

Members of the public can speak to officers who are on patrol, or visit the mobile police station.

This will be in the Buffett Way area tomorrow and Thursday from about 9am to 4.30pm.

Anyone with information is asked to call the North Major Crime Team on 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org