‘Maybe one of the builders cut themselves, bled out, didn’t bother to clean up?’

‘That’s what I said, but Forensics are ruling that out because of the splatter pattern. It looks like someone suffered serious blood loss at the foot of the wall where Benji fell. So –’ Renshaw took a deep breath – ‘I’ve put in a request for EVR dogs to be brought in. If I get the nod it might happen this afternoon.’

‘Seriously?’ Maggie exclaimed. ‘You’re asking for dogs that sniff bodies through concrete?’

‘I’m acting on what Forensics have said. Based on the amount of blood at the scene and the way it was spilled, they suspect that Benji isn’t the only person who’s died there.’

33

When Maggie went back outside Imogen was perched expectantly on the edge of her seat, waiting for her.

‘What’s happened?’

‘That was DS Renshaw, the SIO. They’re going to be doing another search of the school grounds as something significant has come to light. We’re not sure if it’s linked to Benji’s death though, so I can’t really give you any more details until the search is completed.’

‘I heard you mention sniffer dogs.’

‘Yes, they’re being brought in to assist the search.’ Maggie pulled a face. ‘I’m sorry that I’m having to be vague, I find it frustrating too.’

‘It’s okay, I understand.’

‘I do need to clear up a couple of things that could help move the investigation on,’ said Maggie, opening her notebook and casting an eye over the scrawled entries she’d made during the briefing earlier, when Renshaw had outlined the information she needed from Imogen today. ‘Do you feel up to a few more questions?’

Imogen immediately crossed her arms protectively in front of her but she also nodded.

‘Benji told Poppy he knew a hidden way to get into Rushbrooke because he’d found it while out playing,’ said Maggie. ‘Were you aware he was going up to the school when he went out to play?’