POLICE probing the death of a man who mysteriously died in a caravan in a quiet village near Billericay have launched a murder investigation.

Sam Garcia, 26, was reported to be seriously ill inside a caravan off Clock House Road, in Little Burstead, when police were called by the ambulance service just before 4am on Monday, May 6.

When officers arrived they found paramedics treating Mr Garcia, of Brooks Avenue, East Ham, but he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Four people were arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder.

A post-mortem examination was carried out on Tuesday, May 7. However, further tests are required to establish the cause of death.

Senior investigating officer, Det Chief Insp Mark Hall, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: “At this stage, we are investigating to establish the full facts and treating it as a homicide.

“We are looking to speak with anyone who was at the farm in Little Burstead on that Sunday night or Monday morning. “Equally, we would like to hear from those who have information relating to Sam’s death.”

A brief statement released by Essex Police on behalf of Mr Garcia's family today said: "Samuel Joseph Garcia, beloved son, brother, grandson and friend.

"A hard-working, humorous loyal and loving man. Loved and missed forever."

Two men, aged 29 and 30, and both from Canning Town, east London, and a 34-year-old woman from East Ham, east London have been released on police bail until Wednesday, July 31 pending further enquiries.

A 69-year-old man from Billericay has now been released from bail without charge.

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at Brentwood’s major investigation team on 101, e-mail scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.