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TRIBUTES have today been paid to a "great" dad who was found dead at a flat on New Year's Day as two women were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Paul Fletcher, known as "Dod" to his friends, was found "unresponsive" just before 1am after cops were called to a home in Rayleigh, Essex.

Paul Fletcher was found dead at a Rayleigh home on New Year's Day
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Paul Fletcher was found dead at a Rayleigh home on New Year's DayCredit: Facebook
Friends and family have paid tribute to the dad, known as 'Dod'
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Friends and family have paid tribute to the dad, known as 'Dod'Credit: Facebook
Police are seen outside the Rayleigh home after the tragedy
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Police are seen outside the Rayleigh home after the tragedyCredit: JOHN McLELLAN

Paramedics desperately tried to save him but he tragically died at the scene in Worcester Drive.

Three people - women aged 23 and 25 along with a 39-year-old man - have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Dod's grieving sister today posted a tribute on social media, writing: "RIP little bro.

"I know we (didn't) see eye to eye a lot of the time but you are still my little brother and I love you.

'LOVE YOU ALWAYS'

"Wish we made peace. Love u always."

Another relative said Dod had been "mending his troubled life".

The family member told The Sun Online: "He was incredibly passionate about supporting his family and friends.

"He never would let someone go without."

Another pal Crystalann Kelly, 35, added: "He was always happy go lucky lad and we always had a laugh and joke.

“He is a great dad to his son and I'm feeling sorry for him at this sad time.”

'TOO YOUNG TO BE TAKEN'

The Dagenham mum said Dod, as he was known to all his pals, was much-loved.

She said: “If anyone needed help he would be there to help them.

"I'm gonna miss him and so is all his friends and family."

Other friends said Dod was a "good lad" with another saying: "Sad news he was to young to be taken."

A large police presence remains at the scene of the murder this afternoon. 

Sniffer dogs have also been seen examining the scene.

Essex Police said they had been called just before 1am on New Year's Day.

Three arrests were made, with the local woman also been arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker.

Essex Police said they believe all parties involved were known to each other.

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If you have any information about this incident please call the Major Crime Team on 101 and quote incident number 147 of 1 January.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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NINTCHDBPICT000628365642
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NINTCHDBPICT000628365642Credit: JOHN McLELLAN