Murder inquiry: Northampton man remains in custody after death of 72-year-old man

A 27-year-old Northampton man is still in custody this afternoon on suspicion of murder following the death of an elderly man yesterday.

The investigation was launched after the 72-year-old victim was assaulted in the area of Hyde Road/Blisworth Road in Roade at around 4.20pm on Wednesday afternoon.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics and members of the public, the man died a short time later.

A 27-year-old Northampton man was arrested on suspicion of murder.

As at the time of writing (March 9, 3.45pm) the man has not been charged with murder and remains in police custody.

Speaking yesterday, Detective Inspector Pete Long from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit Major Crime Team, said: “At the present time and in order to preserve best evidence, we are treating this incident as a murder investigation.

“As the public can well imagine, this is an exceptionally fast-moving investigation and a team of detectives from the Major Crime Team are working around the clock to gather all the evidence and ascertain exactly what happened here.

“I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or who may have information about the incident to please come forward and help us.

“I am particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have witnessed an altercation between two dog walkers in the area of Hyde Road/Blisworth Road between 3.50pm and 4.20pm today.

“Specialist officers are supporting the family of the 72-year-old man at what is an extremely distressing time.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Northamptonshire Police on 101. Alternatively, if you would like to remain anonymous, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.