Police 'overwhelmed' by public support in Wolverhampton murder suspect manhunt

Jackson, aged 19, was identified last week as the suspect in the murder of former music teacher Herman 'Louis' Simpson in Wolverhampton.

At a press conference on Friday Mr Simpson's family urged Mr Jackson to hand himself in.

Then, hours following the briefing, officers held a six-hour armed siege around a house in Oxbarn Avenue – only to find Mr Jackson was not there. A force spokesman said there were no further similar incidents over the weekend as their investigation into Mr Jackson's whereabouts continue.

More than 1,500 people have shared the police's 'wanted' message on social media.

On Twitter, a spokesman said: "We've been overwhelmed by the support of the investigation by you on Twitter and Facebook. Please keep up the retweets."

Father-of-one Mr Simpson, 47, was found stabbed to death in his home in Compton Road at around 8.30pm last Monday.

He died from a stab wound to the back.

Mr Simpson is survived by his son Sanchez, a biology graduate from Swansea University who is now studying in London.

Three people were initially arrested in connection with the murder but have been released without charge and are being treated as witnesses, not suspects. Police believe Mr Jackson and Mr Simpson knew each other.

Following Friday night's raid in Oxbarn Avenue, residents described how they were told to go back into their homes by the police.

The street was closed between Trysull Road and Hazel Road for around six hours until the area was declared safe.

Gary Stokes, who lives a few doors down from the house, said he often saw Mr Jackson, but did not know him closely, though they used to exchange pleasantries.

He said: "From the brief time I knew him, I would never say he was the type of person to do this. He always seemed polite."

Another resident, who did not wish to be named, said she knew the family who lived in the house that was searched and described them as 'nice'.

Superintendent Ron Winch, said: "Dylan Jackson was named as being wanted in connection with the murder of Herman 'Louis' Simpson.

"I'd like to thank anyone inconvenienced by the operation for their patience. Hopefully they understand their safety and the safety of people in the area was always our primary concern. I'd also urge people with information on the whereabouts of Dylan Jackson to call us immediately."

Police officers remain in the area to reassure people worried by the operation and inquiries in the area continue.