400 questioned in hunt for Richard Deakin's killer

Police have taken more than 400 statements in the hunt for the killer of a Staffordshire father who was gunned down in his own home nearly a year ago.

Richard Deakin, aged 27, was shot twice in bed in his home in Chasetown, Burntwood on July 5 last year.

The skip hire boss, from Cheslyn Hay, was shot after a hooded man entered his Meadway Street house moments after partner Megan had left to take their young daughters to school.

Peter Bate, a spokesman for Staffordshire Police, has revealed that in the last 12 months 400 statements have been taken. He said: "There is a dedicated team of detectives and police staff who are committed to investigating Richard's death.

"So far, they have taken over 400 statements, carried out over 800 actions and gathered and documented over 800 exhibits."

In early June a suspect from Bilston was released on bail after being questioned over the murder. The 61-year-old was questioned on suspicion of conspiracy to murder Mr Deakin, who was blasted twice with a sawn-off shotgun in his bed. A 33-year-old Bilston man was also arrested who was also released on police bail after being held on suspicion of the same offence.

Anyone with information is still being asked to ring police on 01785 233600.