Police are appealing for help to track down Aaron Pennington after the body of his wife Breanne was found at the back of their house early on Sunday morning.

Four children who were inside - aged two, five, seven and nine - are now with child protection services.

They had left the house and gone to a neighbour by the time officers arrived at the scene amid reports of a disturbance.

Pennington is white and 6ft 2in tall, with blond hair and blue eyes.

The 33-year-old was believed to be driving a white BMW 320.

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According to CBS Boston, a vehicle has been found in connection with the search and was abandoned in woodland.

Massachusetts State Police said: "Pennington may be armed with a firearm. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

"Any member of the public who sees Pennington or the vehicle is directed to not approach him but rather, to call 911 immediately."

When asked in a news conference if neighbours near the house should be concerned, the Massachusetts attorney general said: "We're concerned. Everyone should be on alert."