Post-mortem says cause of death of pensioner, 74, is 'unascertained' as murder inquiry continues

A post-mortem carried out on a 74-year-old man who died after an incident in a village near Northampton says the cause of death is "unascertained".

A murder inquiry was launched on Wednesday after the death of the man in Roade. The post-mortem results from Leicester Royal Infirmary were released by Northamptonshire Police on Thursday night.

At about 4.20pm yesterday (Wednesday, April 8), police received reports of a 74-year-old man having been assaulted in the area of Hyde Road/Blisworth Road in Roade, Northampton. Despite the best efforts of paramedics and members of the public, the man died a short time later.

A 27-year-old Northampton arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident has been released on police bail to an address outside of Northamptonshire pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Pete Long from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit Major Crime Team, said: “Detectives are still working around the clock on this very difficult and complex investigation and I am still very keen to speak to anyone who has any information about this incident but has not yet come forward.

“From our initial enquiries, we do believe this to be an isolated incident, and we are continuing to work through all the evidence that has been gathered so far.

“Thank you to all of the members of the public who have come forward so far with their witness accounts and information – it is much appreciated.

“Specialist officers continue to support the family of the 74-year-old man at this awful time and they have kindly asked the media to please respect their privacy while they grieve.”

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.