Weapon located in Blandford murder investigation as police say Katrina O'Hara died of two stab wounds to the chest

Dorset Police said on Monday that the man had been released from hospital on Saturday evening after receiving treatment to an injury to his wrist.

Detectives this morning were granted a 36-hour extension by Bournemouth Magistrates’ and the man continues to assist officers with their enquiries.

The 44-year-old grandmother died at the barbershop where she worked after being stabbed twice in the chest.

Detectives conducting the murder enquiry recovered a knife close to the East Street shop where popular hairdresser Katrina O'Hara died last week.

Ms O'Hara, a mum-of-three who was attacked as she closed up the salon, has now been officially identified and named by her family.

Moving messages from shocked family and friends were among the many floral tributes left at the scene.

One tribute from her son, Kyle Stark, read: "I love you more than anything in this world.

"You were my rock. The world has lost a truly incredible lady, grandmother and mother. You will always be with me."

Officers were called to Jock's Barbers around 6.10pm on Thursday and discovered a woman's body with serious injuries.

Detectives, who say the victim and suspect were known to one another, confirmed Ms O'Hara died at the scene.

According to some reports two men chased the suspect through the streets following a trail of blood, which led northwards through a series of alleyways.

These alleyways were later sealed off and, along with the barbershop, became the focus of intense police activity in the hours following the fatal attack.

Shocked neighbours living close to the barbershop described Ms O'Hara as a popular, cheerful woman, well known throughout the close-knit market town.

Detective Inspector Richard Dixey, of Dorset Police's Major Crime Investigation Team, said: "I would like to thank the public, in particular the local residents in Blanford, for their assistance, support and cooperation during this ordeal.

"Many witnesses have come forward with information and we have been able to locate a potential weapon – a knife – near to the scene of the incident.

"Family liaison officers have updated Ms O'Hara's family with these developments and our thoughts are with them at this tragic and most difficult time.

"I would like to ask, on behalf of the family, that their request for undisturbed privacy and time to grieve is respected."