Weapon found in stab murder probe

Extra patrols are being carried out around Ribbleton Park

Detectives investigating the murder of a man who was stabbed in the back in Preston have found a weapon.

David Cornall, 30, was returning to his home in Hesketh Close, Ribbleton, on Tuesday night after drinking out in the city centre when he was stabbed.

He was taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he was treated for a single stab wound, but died about four hours later.

Police said they did not know whether the weapon, found in the Ribbleton Park area, was used to kill Mr Cornall.

It has been sent away for forensic tests and the murder investigation is continuing.

Single stab wound

Extra officers are in the area conducting house-to-house inquiries and searches as part of the inquiry.

Detectives said Mr Cornall was known to frequent pubs and bars in the city centre and said they want to speak to anyone who saw him between 1500 GMT and 2230 GMT on Tuesday.

Emergency services were called to his home at about 2230 GMT that day.

He was taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he was treated for a single stab wound, but died about four hours later.