Friend of Channel 4 star paramedic found dead next to woman's body shares emotional tribute

999: On the Frontline star Daniel Duffield's friend and co-star has issued an emotional tribute after he was found dead next to the body of a woman at a house in Staffordshire.

Police have launched a murder investigation after the bodies of Duffield, 24, from Cannock, and Lauren Evans, 22, from South Wales, were found by ambulance staff at a home in Cannock on Tuesday (25 June) afternoon.

Detective Superintendent Nicki Addison, of Staffordshire’s Major Investigations Department, said: “My thoughts are very much with the families at this time.

“I know this news has understandably shaken the local community.

Daniel Duffield was a paramedic for West Midlands Ambulance Service, and appeared in series 11 Channel 4’s 999: On the Frontline. (Instagram/@3llmae)

"I’d like to reassure everyone that we’ve got a specialist team of officers working extensive hours to fully investigate what happened and support the families of those affected.

“We completely understand that lots of people want to know more about what happened, but we’d like to reiterate that speculation isn’t helpful to families at this distressing time.

“I would like to thank everyone who has already come forward with information and ask that people continue to get in touch if they’ve got any information that can help us.”

Duffield's friend and colleague Ellie, who appeared alongside him on the Channel 4 show in season 11, has since issued a tribute to him on social media.

Writing on Instagram, she said: "Never in a million years did I think I'd have to sit and write this and yet I'm still trying to come to terms with it.

"I just want to express how special you [were] to me, not only my best friend at work and the best crew mate but one of my best friends who had a massive impact on day to day life, the most kind hearted person who always had time to help others, who made me laugh every day and always would pick up the phone whenever I was in need.

They appeared on 999: On the Frontline together. (Instagram/@3llmae)

"Dan I can't believe you're actually gone.

"We were meant to go out together this week and I was looking forward to seeing you.

"Even the phone call we had this morning an hour before you [were] gone I'll never forget, love you forever Dan."

West Midlands Ambulance Service also added: “Daniel Duffield was a well-known member of staff and always keen to help and support his colleagues.

“His death at such a young age is a great tragedy.

“I hope Daniel’s family can take some comfort from the hundreds of patients he helped through his time as a paramedic.

“Our thoughts go out to the families of both of those found at the scene.”