THE victim at the centre of a major murder investigation has been named as 19-year-old Stourport man Shane Price.

A post mortem revealed he died of a single stab wound to the chest during what police believe was a fight on a car park at Hartlebury Common, near Stourport, on Friday at about 5.30pm.

A 41-year-old woman was also stabbed in the chest and sustained several other injuries. She was treated in hospital but has since been released.

Seven people were arrested in connection with the incident and more than 50 officers have been drafted in from across Worcestershire to work on the investigation.

Two men and a woman have been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and remain in custody.

Four women who were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and have been released on police bail, pending further inquiries.

Detectives are running the investigation from West Mercia’s Constabulary’s Major Investigation Unit at Worcester police station.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Williamson, leading the murder inquiry, said: “We believe there was a fight between a number of people, as a result of which Mr Price sustained a fatal stab wound to the chest.

“Inquiries are continuing and we want to assure residents and the local community that in excess of 50 officers from both South Worcestershire and North Worcestershire divisions, as well as from the force’s Major Investigation Unit, are working on this case.

“High visibility patrols by police and community support officers are being increased in the Stourport area for reassurance.

“Feelings are understandably running high but our message to the local community is that it is imperative they do not take matters into their own hands.

“We are asking for their assistance in supplying any information about the incident and are urging them to co-operate with us.

“Specially trained family liaison officers have been appointed to assist Mr Price’s family through this very difficult time.”

Police are continuing to appeal for any witnesses or anyone with information, including dog walkers, cyclists and horse riders using the common at the relevant time, to contact detectives on 0300 333 3000 or to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.