Murder probe latest: Tribute paid to Chester man found shot and stabbed

Mar 14 2011 by David Holmes, Chester Chronicle

A FAMILY has paid tribute to a loved one found dead in a car outside a Chester police station after being shot and stabbed.

Detectives investigating the death of former doorman Martin Ithell, 49, of Boughton, are continuing to question a 22-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of his murder.

Police were called to an incident at a house in Hawthorne Road, Frodsham , about 7.50pm on Friday where the female was arrested.

Five hours later, at about 1.15am on the Saturday, the male was arrested at Blacon police station after a body was found in a car parked outside.

Martin’s partner Sarah, brother Jimmy and niece Melissa said in a statement: “Martin was a wonderful partner to Sarah, son to Megan, brother to Jimmy, uncle to Melissa, and brother-in-law to Vanessa.

“It is so unfair and totally devastating that the kindest, loving and most generous man has been so cruelly taken from us.

“We will all miss him so much and just cannot come to terms with what has happened. Martin was always there to help anyone who needed him, and he will never be forgotten by his family, and many many friends.”

A post mortem examination revealed the deceased had been shot and stabbed.