A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man was found dead in a hotel in Earley this morning.

Police were first called to reports of a man being assaulted by two other men and paramedics rushed to the Elmhurst Hotel in Church Road at around 10am this morning.

The man in his forties, whose identity is yet to be established, was confirmed dead at the scene.

Two men have since been picked up by officers in the town centre and are in custody being quizzed by detectives.

A police cordon is currently in place around the hotel and a number of residential streets, including St Peters Road, Lennox Road and Church Road are closed in places.

Investigating officer, Detective sergeant Richard Vint of Force CID based at Reading police station, said: "I would like to reassure the community that we are conducting a thorough investigation into this incident and we have already arrested two men on suspicion of murder.

"At this stage of the investigation we believe this was a targeted attack.

Reading Chronicle:

Forensic investigators outside the suspected murder scene at Elmhurst Hotel 

"We have a scene watch in place at Elmhurst Hotel, as well as a number of road closures in place at this time.

"I would like to thank local residents for cooperating with these closures, which are in place so we can carry out our work."

The two men in custody, both from Reading, are 28 and 38 years old and were arrested on suspicion of murder at around 11am - one hour after officers were first called to the hotel.

An eyewitness, who wished to remain nameless, said: "We came outside and there was police tape everywhere and search vans and police cars.

"The road is all taped off and only residents are allowed down there.

"It happened this morning, it must have been around 11am."

Det sgt Vint added: "I would appeal to anyone with any information about this murder to contact police immediately. You can either visit your nearest police station or call us on 101.

"If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court."

Superintendent Stan Gilmour, LPA Commander for Reading, said: "Dealing with violent crime is a priority for Reading police and we will work with our partners to resolve this as soon as possible.

"Any members of the public with concerns about the incident can speak to officers at the scene, visit their nearest police station or call us on 101."