DCI Derek Wheeler of the Violent Crime Unit was getting on in years but not tempted by any further promotion. He was keen to stay an active copper until his retirement rather than become a pen pusher.
However, he thought as he got in his car, a pen pusher wouldn't have his breakfast disturbed with an immediate summons to the Chief Constable. It was not the ideal way to ease himself in to work after a holiday. He had pictured a more relaxing day rather than investigating whatever it was that was so important.
Making his way in to Central Police Headquarters, there was hardly anyone present in the building as Derek was instantly shown in to the Chief's office. Another officer, a woman was already inside, talking to the Chief when he arrived. She looked upset about something.
"Ah, Derek," said the Chief as Derek entered. "Sorry to drag you out here so early," he apologised.
"Not to worry, Sir," Derek replied as he took his seat in the vacant chair in front of the Chief's desk.
"Have you met DCI Davidson?" The Chief asked, indicating the other officer next to him.
"I don't believe I've had the pleasure," Derek said, looking at DCI Davidson who concurred. "DCI Wheeler," he introduced himself with an outstretched hand. "Call me Derek,"
"DCI Davidson. Jo," was his reply as they shook hands.
"DCI Davidson is the SIO for MIT," the Chief informed Derek. "They were called to a case in the early hours of the morning, but it appears to have been a bit premature," he continued. "Victim was found to be still alive, although only just, by the attending paramedic,".
"So you want VCU to take over?" Derek guessed. You couldn't ask MIT to investigate when there hadn't been a murder.
"Yes, although you will be working closely with DCI Davidson and her team," the Chief informed Derek. It was a bit of an unusual situation he realised. No wonder for the early summons.
"It's possible this case is related to a murder we are currently investigating," Jo explained. "Certain aspects are similar. The type of victim. The method of killing his victim, although obviously he didn't quite succeed this time,".
"We are presuming the attacker does not realise he has failed," the Chief interjected, "so we are going to keep the press in the dark about this for the moment,".
Derek sat and listened. "Surely it makes sense to give MIT the lead on this, Sir?" he suggested. He wouldn't be offended in the slightest if VCU were not involved.
"Normally we would," the Chief replied, "except there is a tiny detail I haven't told you about yet that makes that suggestion null and void,". Derek was silent as he tried to think what it might be. "The latest victim is a police officer who works on MIT," the Chief revealed.
Derek's eyebrows shot up at that news. This was a big deal. No wonder for all the cloak and dagger routine this morning. "Christ!" he couldn't help but explain before realising his manners. "I'm so sorry," he said to DCI Davidson. "Can I ask who?".
"My DI. Kate Fleming," Jo replied. "Found by the postman this morning in her kitchen. Naked, bound and beaten to within an inch of her life,".
I've been working on this story for a little while and am finally happy to share it with people. The rating may change because of the subject matter just to warn people if they want to give it a miss. I'm working on something a little more lighthearted next!