Man, 44, dies after three burglars break into his Blackpool flat and attack him as police launch murder probe
A MAN has died after three burglars burst into a flat in Blackpool.
Cops were called at around 6.50pm on Monday to a report of an aggravated break-in at a property in Scorton Avenue.
The trio had allegedly forced their way inside and assaulted John Hutchinson before fleeing the scene.
Officers attended the incident and spoke to the victim.
Two hours later, the 44-year-old suffered a suspected cardiac arrest.
He was rushed to Blackpool Victoria Hospital where he died.
READ MORE UK NEWS
Following a Home Office post-mortem, it was established Mr Hutchinson passed away from internal injuries after the earlier assault.
Six people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Four men, 33, 33, 36, and 47, were held on suspicion of murder, while a 34-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. All five remain in custody.
A 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and was later released.
Most read in The Sun
Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward.
They are particularly interested in any sightings of a grey Ford Fiesta with the registration SG18 BGU, which may have travelled to Blackpool from the Merseyside area on Monday.
Det Ch Insp Andy Fallows, of Lancashire Police’s Force Major Investigation Team, said: "We have launched a murder investigation following the death of John Hutchinson in Blackpool.
"Our thoughts are very much with Mr Hutchinson’s family at this very sad and difficult time.
"While we have made several arrests, we are very keen to speak to anyone with information or any witnesses who can assist our enquiries."
Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 1207 of April 10 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.