POLICE investigating the murder of a man in an East Yorkshire village say a crossbow has been recovered from the scene - and revealed that an attempt was made to murder the man's pregnant partner.

Det Chf Supt Judi Heaton said the attack which killed Shane Gilmer, 30, left his partner, who has now been identified as Laura Sugden, with non-life threatening injuries, and both she and her unborn baby were stable.

Some media have reported that a crossbow was used in the attack and DCS Heaton said: "We have recovered a crossbow from the scene and again, this is being forensically examined."

She said: “The incident happened in their home in Southburn on Friday evening and we are still actively searching for a suspect.

“What’s really important to us is that we find Anthony Lawrence, who is also known as Tony Howarth, and bring him in safely.

“We want to say thank you to the public for their assistance in our investigation so far. Their information has been invaluable and we’re following up a number of lines of enquiry.

“We have recovered a car linked to him – a blue Vauxhall Mevira – which is being examined by our forensic team.

“We still have teams in the Southburn area and they will be remaining in that area for the next few days, both as part of the investigation and to provide reassurance for those living and working there.

“As we’ve said, we don’t believe that Lawrence is a threat to the wider public. This was an isolated incident and he was known to Shane and Laura – they were neighbours.

“However, we don’t know how he will react if challenged, so do not approach him. Call 999 and leave it to us."

“He is white, 55-years-old, 5ft 10in tall and balding, with close cropped dark hair.

A police helicopter and dog units have been deployed in the continuing hunt for Mr Lawrence.