Woman questioned after lawyer knifed to death at home

The man, named as solicitor David Mark Edwards, died from a single wound to the chest in what police believe was a “domestic incident”.

The 51-year-old died at the £320,000 detached house in Parkers Wood Close, Chorley. Paramedics were unable to save him.

As a Home Office pathologist was carrying out a post mortem examination to establish the cause of death, friends and former colleagues of the defence lawyer were said to be “stunned” by the news.

Mr Edwards was well-known on the Magistrates Court circuit in Chorley, Leyland, Blackburn and Burnley for more than two decades.

It also emerged he had recently been married and he had just returned with his new bride from honeymoon.

Police said: “Officers were called to an address on Parkers Wood Close at around 8.20pm (on Sunday) where a 51-year-old man was found with a stab wound to his chest. He sadly died at the scene.

“An investigation is under way and a 42-year-old woman from Chorley has been arrested on suspicion of murder. She remains in police custody at this time.

“Officers believe that the incident is domestic related.”

Last night one former colleague described Mr Edwards as: “A highly experienced and skilled advocate.”

He had practised law for 26 years and could also speak three foreign languages.

He formerly ran his own firm, Stanley H Cross, in Chorley, but he moved to Kevills when it was taken over.

Kevills partners Simon Robinson and Vicky Nicholson said the firm was shocked and deeply saddened at the news.

“David was a talented criminal defence solicitor who we had known personally and professionally for many years.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with David’s family and friends,” they said.

Mr Edwards was also a devoted supporter of Chorley FC and regularly followed the team around the country.

Tributes were posted to him on social media sites.

James Wilkinson wrote: “Sad news of a well-known face around Chorley, Dave Edwards. Often bumped into him at Clive Gregson & Boo Hewerdine gigs.”

Another, Neil Hailwood, posted: “Can’t believe the news, Dave Edwards died from a stab wound. Long-time Chorley fan and only married last month. RIP Dave.”

And another fan, Chorley Mon, added: “RIP Dave. A desperately sad end to a well-known face around Victory Park.”

A spokesman from Chorley FC said: “The club is shocked and saddened that a long-term supporter has died.”

A neighbour said: “There was a huge police presence in the close overnight. There were still cars there the following morning.

“It’s a terrible shock to hear something like this can happen around here.

“It is a quiet area.”