Murder investigation opens as Keynsham man dies after burglary
72-year-old Stephen Ridgeway died in hospital following the incident on November 3
Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed a murder investigation has been opened after the victim of a burglary back on November 3rd has died in hospital.
They're renewing their appeal for information - more than six weeks after the incident - and we're told that preliminary findings have already concluded that his injuries did contribute to his death.
The case follows 72-year-old Stephen Ridgeway, who told officers he answered the door of his home in Tenby Road to two men who forced their way inside.
Police report that the offenders assaulted him and stole property including alcohol and mobile phones - and he was rushed to hospital about 3am that morning.
His condition worsened and he died on Saturday 7 December.
The case is currently being treated as murder by the Major Crime Investigation Team, and the man's family are being made aware.
A man in his thirties, who was arrested prior to Mr Ridgeway’s death on suspicion of aggravated burglary, remains on police bail with conditions including an overnight curfew.
In an appeal on Friday 8 November officers called for anyone with information or CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
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."
If you have any information which could help, please call 101 and give the reference 5224289518. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information
Read more: Police appeal after man assaulted during burglary in Keynsham