Police open murder investigation following death of Amplius staff member

Amplius said everyone at the housing association is “devastated by the tragic passing” of Ms Bird, who had worked there for 12 years.

Craig Taylor, director of customer operations, said: “We’re shocked and completely devastated by what has happened.

“Helen was a genuinely lovely person, an extremely popular colleague and someone who built up a real rapport with our involved customers.

“She cared passionately about improving people’s lives. That enthusiasm clearly came through in everything Helen did, as she worked tirelessly for our customers.

“Our thoughts are with Helen’s family, her friends and her colleagues at this awful time.”

In a statement released by the police, Ms Bird’s family said she was a “deeply loved daughter, devoted mother of two, sister and friend”.

The tribute continued: “She was kind, selfless and loyal to her family, with her children always at the centre of her world.

“Helen’s warmth, compassion and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her. We are devastated by her loss and immensely proud of the woman she was.

“We respectfully ask that our privacy is honoured as we try to come to terms with this heartbreaking loss, and we are grateful for the support shown to us at this difficult time.

“Helen will always be loved and forever remembered.”

On 10 February, Northamptonshire Police said it had launched a murder investigation following an incident in Chelveston. 

The statement said: “The incident happened on the morning of Monday, 2 February, when a woman was attacked inside a property in High Street, Chelveston.

“She was taken to hospital with serious injuries and the next day (3 February), James Daniel Bird, aged 50, of High Street, Chelveston, was charged with attempted murder in connection with the incident and remanded into custody following an appearance at Northampton Magistrates’ Court on 4 February.

“Sadly, the woman died today (10 February) and a murder investigation has now been launched as a result.”

Matt Bly, senior investigating officer at Northamptonshire Police, said the police is not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder, but asked anyone with any information to contact the authorities.

“Our thoughts are with everyone who loved this woman at what is a very distressing time, and specially trained officers are supporting her family,” he added.