Death of Halesowen pensioner not seen for days treated as suspicious
The death of a pensioner who was found in his living room is being treated as suspicious, police have confirmed.
The body of the 78-year-old man was found at his home in Manor Lane, Halesowen, just before 3.30pm on Monday.
He is believed to have been dead for some time before being discovered when officers forced their way in - with police asking anyone who has seen anything suspicious in the area since the start of November to come forward.
The alarm was raised after neighbours became concerned that the man had not been seen for several days and was not answering his door.
A post mortem examination held on Tuesday failed to establish a precise cause of death but detectives have confirmed the death is being treated as suspicious. No arrests have yet been made.
Residents on the leafy road spoke of their shock at their neighbour's death on Wednesday.
One neighbour, who didn't want to be named, said they had heard the news from another neighbour after seeing the police cars outside the address.
They said: "I was at home when I looked out and saw police cars stopping outside the drive to the house, so went down and was told what had happened.
"It's awful news to hear that he'd died and been there for a few days and brings it home to you when you realise how close it is to your own house."
Another neighbour said they didn't know the man too well as he was somewhat reclusive and kept himself to himself.
They said: "I know he was a very quiet man and didn't go out much, living in that big house on his own.
"It's sad to know that he's died and I hope there isn't more to it, although you wonder when you see so many police around."
The driveway to the detached house has been cordoned off since the man was found dead on Monday, with forensic officers scouring the scene for evidence.
A police drone has also been used to photograph the house, which is set back from Manor Lane between Robert Lane and Priory Road and has front and back gardens.
Detective Inspector Sangha, from West Midlands Police CID said: “This is terribly sad. The man hadn’t been seen for several days, neighbours were getting no answer at the door, and unfortunately their fears were realised when our officers found the man inside.
“One of our specially trained family liaison officers is supporting his loved ones at this difficult time.
“It’s unclear exactly when the man died but we believe it’s been a number of days.
“If anyone heard or saw anything suspicious in the area in recent days – dating back to the start of November – then I would urge them to get in touch.”
The man's next of kin have been traced and informed of his death.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or message West Midlands Police via the force website quoting reference log 1692 from November 15.
