The body of an unknown white male was discovered close to Newport canal on Wednesday morning.
Police in Telford confirmed an investigation has been launched after the body was found by two members of the public just after 8am.
Paramedics were immediately called to the scene at the top of the canal, near the Broomfield Road entrance. Efforts were made to save the man but he was declared dead at around 8.50am.
A post mortem was due to be conducted on the body on Wednesday afternoon.
The area around where the body was found was sealed off while police conducted investigative work. A towpath stretch of around 100 metres was cordoned off with several police officers guarding the site, and the police crime scene investigation team were also at the scene.
A West Midlands Ambulance spokesman said they were called to the scene at 8.10am.
He said: “Two ambulances and two rapid response vehicles were dispatched and after treating the man at the scene he was taken to the Princess Royal Hospital.
“Despite the best efforts of the ambulance and hospital staff nothing could be done to save the man and he was pronounced dead at hospital.”
A Broomfield Place resident, who did not wish to be named, said there had been plenty of police activity at the site from the early hours.
The resident said: “The police have been here since 8am and we have even had the helicopters coming over.
“I’m still not sure what’s going on. The police are being very tight-lipped but we haven’t been able to let the dogs out and the police van is parked across the driveway.”
A white tent was put up at the top end of the canal and police are now appealing for anyone who may have seen unusual behaviour close to the canal to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards said: “Although the investigation into the discovery of this body is at an early stage, I’d like to reassure local people that a number of officers are already involved in establishing exactly what caused this man’s death.
“With that in mind I would appeal to anyone who may have information about any unusual behaviour close to the canal in Newport or Edgmond in recent times to come forward and share that information with the police.”
Anyone with information can call police on 0300 333 3000 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
