The father of two children killed alongside their mother and best friend at a sleepover has called for the death penalty to be brought back

Jason Bennett, whose daughter Lacey, 11, son John Paul, 13, and their 35-year-old mother Terri Harris (pictured) were found dead with Lacey’s friend Connie, 11, shared the comments on Facebook

Derbyshire Police said a 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder at the scene and remains in custody, with officers not having any prior contact with those involved.

A neighbour said today: ‘I didn’t hear anything when the attack happened, but on the night before there was an argument – they were shouting.

‘It’s so heartbreaking because the little kids have done nothing wrong. Terri told my mum she was pregnant but couldn’t tell anyone yet as it was still early in the pregnancy.

‘Mum said she wants to move out, she is not dealing with it well. As soon as we can find a way out, she said she is done with Killamarsh.’

An online portal has now been set up by the force to report information or send CCTV, doorbell video or dashcam footage to help the police probe.

Detective Chief Inspector Sally Blaiklock said: ‘Our thoughts remain with the families of Terri, John Paul, Lacey and Connie – as well as the communities that have been affected by this most tragic of incidents.

‘A large scene remains in place on Chandos Crescent and local residents will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days, including patrols by officers in the local area.

‘I would urge anyone who is concerned about the incident to speak to officers in the area or use the online reporting tool to pass information in confidence.

‘Myself and the team of the detectives are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in Chandos Crescent between 6pm on Saturday 18 September and 7am on Sunday 19 September, as well as anyone who may have video footage of the street.

‘That can include dashcam, mobile phone footage, CCTV or video doorbells.’

Who is Killamarsh murder suspect Damien Bendall?

COPS are quizzing a local man, Damien Bendall, in connection with the deaths of three young children and a mum in Killamarsh, Derbyshire.

Police were called to the house on Monday, September 20, 2021, following reports of safety concerns to find Terri Harris, 35, dead at her home along with little John, 13, and Lacey, 11 and pal Connie Gent, 11.

Who is Damien Bendall?

Bendall has been named as the suspect who allegedly killed Terri and three young children.

Latest reports suggest Bendall is being quizzed by police.

Chief Constable Rachel Swann said a 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder of all four people.

Derbyshire Police confirmed a murder probe had been launched and said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the “isolated” incident.

They said officers had no prior contact with those involved and that the victims and alleged assailant know each other.

The statement said: “”While understandably worrying and upsetting this is believed to be an isolated incident in which those involved were known to one another and nobody else is being sought in connection with the deaths.”