08/09/2026
A family have paid a loving and emotional tribute to an ‘inseparable couple’ who were found deceased at a house in Hardman Street, Blackburn.
Ismail Ahmed Leli, 80, and Fatima Leli,78, were described as ‘devoted to one another’ and ‘loved by everyone who knew them.’
Paying tribute, the family said: “On behalf of our entire family, we are heartbroken to share that we have lost our parents, the oldest and most cherished members of our family.
“Married and inseparable for over sixty years, they were the very heart of who we are — devoted to one another and loved by everyone who knew them.
“Their loss has left a void that words cannot describe, and we are still coming to terms with what has happened.
“At this incredibly difficult time, we wish to express our deepest gratitude to the police for their diligence, professionalism and compassion.
“We are also grateful to our local councillors, to the wider community and St Luke's and St Phillip's Church, whose kindness and support have meant a great deal to us. In particular we thank Masjid-e-Quwwatul Islam, which has been a source of strength, comfort and practical support to our family throughout.
“We now ask, respectfully, that our family's privacy be respected, so that we may grieve and mourn in accordance with our faith. We would be grateful for the space and understanding of the media and the public during this period.
“We thank everyone for their prayers and condolences.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un — "To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return."
Our officers were called at 8.22am yesterday (7th September) to Hardman Street, to a report two people had been found with stab injuries.
Very sadly, both were pronounced deceased at the scene, and we launched a murder investigation.
Following enquiries, a man in his 40s was arrested yesterday and remains in custody.
Our investigation is ongoing to establish what happened and why.
If you saw or heard anything suspicious in the area around Hardman Street on Sunday night and Monday morning, or have captured any CCTV, dashcam, mobile phone or doorbell footage that could help us with our enquiries, please make contact with our officers as soon as possible.
Email [email protected] or call 101 – quoting log 0252 of 7th September 2026.
