Police launch murder inquiry

FORENSIC SEARCHES continue this morning at the scene of the murder of a 92-year-old Willenhall man.

Pensioner, William Davis, was found collapsed at his home on Hobley Street on Sunday evening. He had suffered serious head injuries and despite the best efforts of medical staff at the scene, he died as a result of his injuries.

A murder inquiry was launched and detectives have been working at the scene since being called to the premises at 6.30pm on Sunday 1 April.

A post mortem examination begun on Monday to determine the cause of Mr Davis' death. The tests continue this morning, however initial indications are that the pensioner died as a result of head injuries.

Superintendent Richard Baker, from the Force Criminal Investigation Department, said: 

"We continue our painstaking examination of the scene today, and we will be speaking to significant witnesses, including those who discovered Mr Davis and family members who can begin to give us a picture of William's life and last movements.

"We believe William was last seen at around 2.30pm on Sunday, and he was found collapsed in his home by neighbours shortly before we received the call at 6.30pm later that evening.

"We want to hear from anyone who saw Mr Davis on Sunday or saw anyone in the area around Hobley Street that afternoon.

"Any piece of information could well provide the key in finding those responsible for William's death and we urge anyone who may be able to help our inquiry to come forward at the earliest opportunity."

Officers continue to patrol the area to offer reassurance and support to members of the community concerned by the events of the past 48 hours.

Chief Inspector Mike O'Hara, from Walsall Police, said:

"We have officers working in the community to speak to neighbours and residents who may have information to help our investigation, whilst local police will also be on hand to offer support.

"We understand that this incident is likely to cause shock and upset in the community and we want to reassure people that the investigation team will be working tirelessly to determine exactly what has happened."

The house, Hobley Street and Fisher Street, remain cordoned off whilst police make enquiries at the scene and conduct forensic investigations.

Police are urging people in the area to get in contact if they have any information relating to the incident, which may be of assistance to the investigation team. Anyone able to help is urged to contact the Force Criminal Investigation Department at Force CID by dialling 101, or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.