Arrest made after John Paul Duffy and woman found dead within days of each other in 'linked' Coatbridge deaths

Two bodies have been found within days of each other in North Lanarkshire.

A 46-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the Coatbridge deaths that police believe to be linked.

A woman was found dead in Calder Street just two days after the body of John Paul Duffy was found in High Coats flats on Coates Street.

Mr Duffy was found after a concerned member of the public phoned police to the flats on Sunday and, following a post mortem, the 51-year-old’s death is being as murder.

The woman’s body was found by officers attending a nearby property as part of the ongoing investigation on Tuesday.

Her death is currently being treated as unexplained and formal identification is yet to take place, however, investigators believe the deaths to be linked.

Police are now appealing for information and have asked for anyone who was in contact with Mr Duffy in the days before his body was found to contact them as they also urge patience within the local community.

Detective Chief Inspector Graham Grant said: “The deaths are being treated as linked and officers are currently carrying out extensive enquiries into both incidents.

“I would ask the public for their patience as our investigation continues to establish the full circumstances. There is an increased police presence in the area and anyone with concerns should call us on 101 or speak to officers.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen or spoken to Mr Duffy in the days before his body was found, including anyone who may have visited his flat.

“We are also carrying out enquiries to establish places or persons Mr Duffy visited or frequented in the days before his death.”