A murder investigation has been launched after an elderly man died in a home burglary in Keynsham. Avon and Somerset Police said Stephen Ridgeway, 72, answered the door of his home in Tenby Road during the early hours of Sunday, November 3, before two unknown men forced their way inside.
The burglars assaulted him before stealing alcohol and mobile phones. Mr Ridgeway was taken to hospital by paramedics at around 3am but his condition worsened and he died on Saturday, December 7, triggering a murder investigation.
A post-mortem examination has since concluded that the injuries he sustained during the home invasion contributed to his death. Police said the case is now being treated as murder by the Major Crime Investigation Team.
A man in his 30s was arrested prior to Mr Ridgeway’s death on suspicion of aggravated burglary. He remains on police bail with conditions including an overnight curfew.
Avon and Somerset Police said: “Detective Chief Inspector James Wasiak, who is now leading the investigation, said: “Fast-track enquiries were carried out immediately after the incident.
“Colleagues were already following up positive lines of enquiry after the earlier appeal, and awaiting the results of forensic investigation at the property.
“Since the awful news of the man’s death, we have reviewed that early evidence. Today and over the next few days you will see an increased police presence in the area, including further crime scene investigation at the house.
“We have found no evidence of any wider risk to the community but I’d urge anyone who has concerns to speak with the neighbourhood policing team, who will be a reassuring uniformed presence while we make these further enquiries.”
DCI Wasiak added: “If you were in the Tenby Road area between midnight and 3am that Sunday, 3 November, we’d like to hear from you. You may have noticed something which may not seem important in itself, but which could be key when connected with other information.”
Avon and Somerset Police added: “If you can help, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224289518 , or complete our online appeals form. You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.
“No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.”