NEIGHBOURS have told how they heard shouting and banging shortly before a dying woman was discovered in a block of flats.Police have launched a murder investigation after the 27-year-old died in hospital on Sunday night shortly after she was found with serious injuries at the flats in Critchley Street, Ilkeston.
A 48-year-old man was arrested at the scene and remained in police custody last night.
Yesterday, residents Julie Cotton and Marilyn Dean described how they were alerted to the incident, which happened at about 9pm, while they were chatting in Julie's flat.
Ms Dean, 68, said: "We both heard banging and shouting on the landing.
"I called 999 as soon as I could.
"It's terrible and so frightening. I can't believe it.
"I knew of the woman – I used to see her go to Tesco but we didn't really speak."
Julie, 49, added: "I saw her lying on the floor.
"I felt – and feel – terrible and I have been shaking in fear.
"I have lived here 16 years and it is horrendous."
The flats, which are owned by Three Valleys Housing, were cordoned off yesterday and a police officer stood guard at the entrance.
Shocked neighbours stood outside their homes watching police officers, who were conducting house-to-house inquiries.
Derbyshire police said an incident room had been set up and a Home Office pathologist was due to carry out a post mortem examination to determine the cause of the woman's death.
Her family have been informed but she has not yet been officially identified.
Stephen Dunmore, who lives in the Critchley Street flats, paid tribute to the victim.
The 45-year-old said: "She was very polite and she always spoke in the morning. She had a nice personality.
"I feel very sorry for what has happened and I feel for her parents."
Denis Meakin, of Critchley Street, said he was shocked to hear she had died.
The 70-year-old said: "I met her a few times and she seemed to be one of the crowd.
"She got along with people.
"I can't believe what has happened. It's so tragic."
Kathleen Williams, of Wood Street, spoke of her horror at hearing of the news.
The 58-year-old said: "It's hell. I feel like I'm living in a soap opera.
"This really should not have happened. Most people in the area are close and say hello and good morning.
"I feel sick with worry."
Anyone with information should contact Derbyshire police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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