Netherton murder probe: Tributes to man found dead at home as police quiz teen suspects
A man found dead in a suspected murder at his home in Dudley has been named - as police arrest two teenagers over his death.
Simon Johnson, aged 41, was discovered dead at the semi-detached property in Cradley Road, Netherton on Thursday morning.
Two teenagers, both aged 18, have been arrested on suspicion of his murder.
Mr Johnson had been a fitter at Black Country Glazing for 25 years, joining at the age of 17.
Yesterday specialist police officers were supporting his family while a forensic post-mortem took place.
Gemma Howell, office manager at Black Country Glazing, said: "Black Country Glazing would like to pay tribute to one of our employees who has sadly passed away.
"Everyone here is devastated that we have lost one of our own who was not just an employee but a friend as well.
"All our staff and friends are paying tribute to our greatly missed friend and all our thoughts are with the family during this devastating time."
Mr Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Inspector Warren Hines, from the West Midlands Police's Homicide Team, is leading the murder inquiry and continues to appeal for information.
He said: "We are still piecing together the circumstances of this man's death and members of the local community could play a part in helping us to do that.
"If you saw anything – regardless of how insignificant you think it may be - and have not yet spoken to us, I would ask you to give me a call."
The Cradley Road address was cordoned off by police on Thursday as forensic officers began their investigation into Mr Johnson's death.
Parts of Bodmin Road, which is at a junction with Cradley Road not far from the property, was also cordoned off by police.
The property was still cordoned off early yesterday afternoon by police but Bodmin Road had reopened. Police officers were still present at the scene.
Residents spoke of their shock on Thursday after police and ambulance crews arrived at the scene on the morning and the house was taped off.
Information can be passed directly to DI Hines by calling 101 or, to speak anonymously, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
