Two suspects wanted in connection with a double murder inquiry may have been killed, detectives have said.

West Midlands Police said so-called proof-of-life inquiries suggest 29-year-olds Ben Whyley and Ryan Hobday have either deliberately taken themselves “off the radar”, or are both dead.

Hobday is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of father-of-three Daniel Shaw, and the disappearance and suspected murder of Johnny Robbins.

Shaw, aged 28, was found dead in the Tile Hill area of Coventry on 25 March, four days after Robbins, 33, went missing in the same area.

Whyley is wanted in connection with the murder of Robbins, whom detectives believe was kidnapped and tortured. His body has not been found.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Mallett from the force’s Homicide Team, said: “We have made significant progress with this complex investigation. I can now confirm that we know Johnny Robbins was taken to Daniel Shaw’s home in Torrington Avenue and that their murders are linked.

“I’d urge anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the vicinity of 368 Torrington Avenue between Wednesday 21 March and Sunday 25 March who hasn’t already spoken to us, to get in touch.”

He said they had received information from the local community, and that many people had anonymously come forward. He added: “We also know that many are too frightened to come forward and tell us these things in a way that will allow us to arrest and convict the murderers and those who conspired with them to kill Daniel and Johnny.

“I understand that you may be scared to come forward and provide this information but I can help you do it in a way that protects you and your families.”