TWO children were found dead in their beds while a third tried fleeing after a murder at a sleepover.
Lacey, 11, and brother John, 13, were discovered by police in their home in Killamarsh, Derbys, alongside mum Terri Harris, 35.
5
Lacey, mum Terri and John were said to have been found dead in their beds Credit: pixel8000 5
Connie Gent is understood to have tried to escape Credit: pixel8000
Their friend Connie Gent, 11, was also discovered dead at the house after visiting for a sleepover.
A horrified local claims neighbours heard screaming coming from the property on Saturday at around 8pm but police were not called.
The local told The Sun: "I don’t think anyone thought to call the police. It then went quiet for the rest of the night.
“They then heard screaming in the early hours."
Police arrived at around 7.30am and are said to have found Terri, Lacey and John killed in their beds.
The local added: "They were stabbed to death.
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"Connie was found outside.
“It’s thought she tried to escape but was murdered as she fled.
“It must have been terrifying.”
A 31-year-old man, named locally as Damien Bendall, was arrested on suspicion of murder after being found under a tree.
Cops confirmed today he was first taken to hospital for self-inflicted injuries before being quizzed in police custody where he remains.
Officers were pictured trawling through drains and grassland today as the murder probe continued.
Tributes have continued to flood in for the victims today including from Connie's dad Charlie, who posted a touching video montage.
He captioned it: "I love you angel".
MURDER PROBE
Lacey and John's dad Jason Bennett yesterday sobbed as he lay flowers for the youngsters at the scene.
He also posted heartbreaking videos of the siblings enjoying their time together.
Well-wishers have now raised more than ￡15,000 on a fundraising site to help the families.
Police have not yet revealed how the four victims were killed but say they are not looking for anyone else over the "isolated" incident.
They said officers had no prior contact with those involved.
Detective Chief Inspector Sally Blaiklock who is leading the investigation said: “Our thoughts remain with the families of Terri, John Paul, Lacey and Connie – as well as the communities that have been affected by this most tragic of incidents.
“A large scene remains in place on Chandos Crescent and local residents will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days, including patrols by officers in the local area.
“I would urge anyone who is concerned about the incident to speak to officers in the area or use the online reporting tool to pass information in confidence.
“Myself and the team of the detectives are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in Chandos Crescent between 6pm on Saturday 18 September and 7am on Sunday 19 September, as well as anyone who may have video footage of the street.
“That can include dashcam, mobile phone footage, CCTV or video doorbells.”
Anyone with information has been asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 302-190921 or use the online portal.
Dad Jason paid tribute to John and Lacey 5
He shared a video of her spinning her brother on a merry-go-round Credit: Facebook 5
Police were today seen searching drains in the area Credit: PA
Dad shares heartbreaking video of kids, 11 and 13, 'murdered' with mum and pal on sleepover as man arrested