New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema date

17 May 2023 , 09:31
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Steven Harnett was named as the second victim in a double murder (Image: PA)
Steven Harnett was named as the second victim in a double murder (Image: PA)

A couple who had only just started dating were stabbed to death after getting home from the cinema.

Detectives are quizzing a 34-year-old Huddersfield man on suspicion of double murder.

He is accused of fatally stabbing Katie Higton, 27, and 25-year-old Steven Harnett.

It is believed he was arrested after officers launched a manhunt and he attended a police station.

Katie and Steven died in a 'nightmare’ bloodbath after suffering multiple injuries.

Police helicopter spotted in manhunt for fugitive with half an ear qhiddkiqrzidtqinvPolice helicopter spotted in manhunt for fugitive with half an ear

The West Yorkshire Police force has since referred itself to their watchdog - after it was claimed mum-of-four Katie had gone to them begging for help days before her murder.

New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema dateSteven Harnett was named as the man who was found dead at a property in Dalton, Huddersfield on May 15

In a tribute to his twin brother, ‘Ste’, Jordan Harnett, a kitchen designer, wrote: “I can’t believe I’m writing this, I just can’t get my head around it.

“Those who knew Steven knows that he wasn’t perfect but he didn’t deserve this.

“He loved his family and friends and would do anything for you if you needed him. He was an amazing dad…and he was a great twin brother to me.”

He said his life was taken by a “senseless coward” and added: “I will make sure that justice is served as best as I can.

“...Please, if you’re reading this tell the people you love that you love them as you never know when it will be your last chance.”

New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema dateTributes left at the scene after Katie Higton was found dead (Daily Mirror)
New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema dateKatie Higton was named as the victim who was found dead in Huddersfield (West Yorkshire Police / SWNS)

Another pal said Steven was a “gentle soul” and added: “I knew the young man Steve, he was always polite, and as far as I could tell, had a big heart and he would help anyone if he could.

“He was new to Dalton and just wanted mates, to be a good dad, to meet a nice girl and to make some money.

“I’m hearing he met a lovely girl with Katie and they were out on a date to the cinema the night this terrible occurrence happened.

“No one should have to suffer the way these two poor souls suffered on the 15th of May 2023.”

Grandad of stabbed baby, boy, 2, and girl, 4, gives update on kids' conditionGrandad of stabbed baby, boy, 2, and girl, 4, gives update on kids' condition
New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema dateForensic investigators at the scene on Dalton, Huddersfield (Huddersfield Examiner)

An IOPC spokesperson said: “We have received a mandatory referral from West Yorkshire Police linked to the suspected murder of two people in Huddersfield.

“This is due to the fact officers had contact with both victims, and a man who has since been arrested on suspicion of murder, in the days prior to this tragic incident.

“We will now assess the available information to determine what further action may be required.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected by these events.”

New couple killed in 'nightmare' bloodbath after getting home from cinema dateFloral tributes left at the scene (Huddersfield Examiner)

A statement from West Yorkshire Police said: “The Homicide and Major Enquiry Team is continuing to pursue a wide range of active enquiries into the murder of “Katie and Steven at a house on Harpe Inge in Huddersfield overnight between Sunday (May 14) and Monday (May 15).

“While formal post mortems are yet to be conducted both victims had received multiple injuries believed to have been inflicted by a bladed weapon.

“Specially trained officers have been supporting their families today and would ask their privacy is respected at what is clearly a dreadful time.

“Police activity remains ongoing at nearby locations to Harpe Inge as part of enquiries connected to the murder and local NPT officers continue to conduct reassurance patrols.

“Anyone who can assist the investigation is asked to contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101 referencing police log 408 of 15 May. Information can also be given online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat

“Information can also be given anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111”

Lucy Thornton

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