THE VICTIM of an alleged murder in Barton has been named as Peter Crowley.

Detectives believe the 50-year-old was attacked in Underhill Circus on Saturday evening. He was found dead in a flat in Brome Place, Barton, on Sunday morning.

A 17-year-old boy and 16-year-old girl, both from Oxford, were arrested today on suspicion of his murder. The girl was also arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent.

READ MORE: Teen arrested in connection with Barton 'murder'

Another boy, 17, arrested yesterday on suspicion of murder, has now been released without charge after detectives ruled him out of their investigation.

A post-mortem has been conducted by a Home Office pathologist, although the cause of Mr Crowley’s death was said to remain ‘unascertained’.

Det Insp Mike Roddy, of the Major Crime Unit, said in a new statement released this afternoon: “We are continuing our investigation into the circumstances surrounding Peter’s death, and as a result of enquiries yesterday and this morning, we have now released a teenager without charge.

“We have now made two further arrests, and they both remain in police custody.

“I would again appeal to anybody who believes that they may have witnessed an assault on a man near to the shops in Underhill Circus on Saturday evening at around 9.30pm to please contact us.

READ MORE: MP 'concerned' after latest murder allegation

“I would also be keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage to please check this can contact Thames Valley Police online or via 101, quoting incident reference 858 (24 April).

“Alternatively, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Specially trained officers were providing support to Mr Crowley’s family, a spokesman added.

Late on Monday night, after police released details of their first arrest, Thames Valley Police’s senior officer for Oxford Supt Bruce Riddell acknowledged that the alleged murder had ‘naturally’ caused concern in Barton.

“We do not believe this incident to be linked to any previous violence-related offences in the area, and as such, we are treating this as an isolated occurrence,” he said.

“We also believe that the offenders and victim are known to each other.

“You will continue to see an increased presence of police officers and staff in the area while our investigation continues, and if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to any of them, and they will be happy to address these concerns with you.

“I am proud of the strong community in the Barton area, and I would reiterate that we are making good progress in this investigation, and would ask anybody who has any information that may assist to please get in touch with us.”

He expressed his condolences to Mr Crowley’s family.

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

For news updates straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on news@nqo.com or 01865 425 445.