Sacked policeman kills his wife and daughter

A sacked police inspector killed his wife and six-year-old daughter and seriously injured his two other children in a frenzied knife attack before killing himself.

Toby Day, 37, his wife, Samantha, and youngest daughter Genevieve were found fatally injured in their home in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

His 13-year-old son was found injured in the semi-detached house and his 15-year-old daughter was found nearby. Both were injured but their conditions are described as serious but stable.

Mr Day was sacked by Leicestershire Police last Thursday, following a period of suspension and disciplinary hearing over allegations of "computer misuse". He had been informed of "press interest" in the sacking, which Leicestershire Police said was related to "matters concerning honesty and integrity". He had appeared in the media on behalf of the constabulary in the past and had received recognition for his dedication.

Officers first answered a 999 call at 4.20pm over reports that the elder daughter, Kimberley, had been injured. It is understood she fled the family home and ran to Swallowdale Primary School where emergency services were called.

She was taken to hospital and police forced their way into the family's home.

Yesterday, neighbours described Mr Day as a family man. Frances Waite, 64, who is retired and lives near by, said she had got to know the family after Mr Day's son started attending Cubs, which she ran. She said Mr Day "adored his youngest daughter".

She said: "They are beautiful girls. I remember the son being his pride and joy. It is unbelievable, Toby would regularly give me a lift back from Cubs meetings. "There was nothing to suggest there was any underlying problem but there was obviously something he could not quite come to terms with. You can't get your head round it, really. He used to go out jogging, he liked the outdoors and he took children with him sometimes.

"They were always very well-dressed and they had very good manners. I always thought they were a credit to him and his wife."

Another neighbour, who preferred not to be named, fought back tears as she spoke of the "horror which must have unfolded in that house". She added: "It is dreadful to think of what those people went through." Neighbours left flowers and balloons in tribute.