Murder Probe Launched After Man Found Dead in Barton, Oxford
Body Discovered Following Saturday Night Assault
Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit has launched a murder investigation after a man in his fifties was found dead inside a Barton home today (24 April).
Officers were called to a property in Brome Place at around 11.30am amid welfare concerns. Tragically, the man was discovered with serious head and facial injuries.
It has emerged he was allegedly assaulted the previous evening near the shops at Underhill Circus but never sought medical help or reported the attack.
Assault Suspected Near Barton Shops
The attack reportedly took place around 9.30pm on Saturday, when the victim was allegedly assaulted by an unknown man and woman and knocked to the floor.
Friends later took him home, but raised the alarm when he failed to answer his door the next morning.
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
Detective Inspector Mike Roddy of Thames Valley Police said:
“We are in the very early stages of this investigation. While we have opened a murder inquiry, we are keeping an open mind about the circumstances surrounding the death.”
“We believe the victim was assaulted near Barton shops last Saturday. We urge anyone in the area between 8.30pm and 10pm who saw anything to contact us.”
Witnesses can report information online or by calling 101, quoting incident 858 of 24 April. Alternatively, callers can remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Community Reassured Amid Increased Police Presence
No arrests have been made yet. Police have increased patrols and set up scene watches both at the assault location and the Brome Place address.
Detective Inspector Roddy added:
“This appears to be an isolated incident, but we are investigating thoroughly. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, who have been notified and are receiving support from specially trained officers.”
Locals are urged to speak to officers on scene if they have any concerns or information.
