Eastleigh civic figures have called for the public to help police with a murder probe after the death of 46-year-old resident Elliot Handley

A major investigation has been launched after police were called to a flat in Dorchester and found the body of 46-year-old Elliot Handley, of Eastleigh.

Three men arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

The cause of Mr Handley’s death has not been disclosed and no further details about the victim have been released by Dorset police.

But police say his next of kin have been informed and are being kept updated by specially-trained officers.

Last night Eastleigh councillor Godfrey Olson spoke of his shock after learning that a man from the town had been murdered.

Cllr Olson, a former mayor of Eastleigh and an ex-leader of the council, said: “I’m very sorry to hear of his death and my sympathy goes out to his family.

“I don’t know the circumstances but there seems to be so much violence going on at the moment. It really does worry me.”

Mims Davies, newly-elected Tory MP for Eastleigh, pictured below, added: “I am shocked to hear of this news and urge anyone with any knowledge of this incident to come forward as soon as possible to assist the police.

“I also send my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victim at this most difficult time."

Mr Handley is known to have visited Truro, Cornwall, last week before making his way to Dorset.

Detective Inspector Neil Devoto, heading the investigation, said officers were still trying to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the victim’s death.

His body was found in a flat at Compass House in The Grove, Dorchester, just before 10pm on Tuesday.

Det Insp Devoto said: “I am appealing to anyone who may have seen Elliot between Thursday May 21 and Tuesday May 26, or had recent contact with him, to contact me urgently.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in The Grove on the evening of May 26 or who has any other information that could be useful.”

Mr Handley, whose body was found in a property above the Dorchester Collection car dealership, was declared dead at the scene by paramedics.

The area was cordoned off as detectives started carrying out house-to-house inquiries in a bid to catch Mr Elliot’s killer. They also visited a nearby farm as part of their investigation.

A 43-year-old Dorchester man arrested on Tuesday evening on suspicion of murder has been bailed to a secure hospital.

A 47-year-old man Dorchester man and a 69-year-old man from Weymouth were also arrested on suspicion of murder the next morning. They have both been bailed until the middle of next month.

Call Dorset police on 101, quoting Operation Brisk, or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.