POLICE have issued a statement directly to Chapelford residents following the launch of a murder investigation.

A huge police presence was reported on Phoenix Place in the area this morning, Tuesday, following reports of a ‘serious assault’.

It has since been confirmed that a 48-year-old woman has died, with a 17-year-old arrested on suspicion of murder.

READ> Boy, 17, arrested on suspicion of murder as woman dies in Chapelford

Detectives have addressed the Chapelford community directly with a message to residents.

DS Jon Betts, of Warrington Local Policing Unit, said: “I would like to reassure residents that this is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider community.

“A 17-year-old boy has been arrested and he is being held in police custody.

READ> Live coverage of murder investigation on Phoenix Place in Chapelford

“There is currently an increased police presence in the local area, and I would urge anyone with any concerns to speak to an officer.

“As part our ongoing enquiries, I would like to hear from anyone who was in the Phoenix Place area between 9.30am and 9.45am and believes they may have witnessed the incident.

“The same goes for anyone with any video or dashcam footage.”

Anyone with any information or footage is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML 1632153, or visit cheshire.police.uk/tell-us