Tragedy struck on Halstead Road in Aldham shortly after 1pm on Tuesday, 29 December, when 83-year-old Donald Ralph was found dead inside his home. Essex Police confirmed the sad news and identified the victim as a resident of Aldham.
Officers are currently awaiting post-mortem results to determine the exact cause of Mr Ralph’s death. Detective Chief Inspector Scott Egerton from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate stated that the incident is believed to be targeted.
He said: “We are supporting Mr Ralph’s family at this distressing time and thank local residents for their support and assistance to our officers.”
Detectives have also confirmed that Mr Ralph’s car, a blue Volvo V50 with registration HD08 YFV, is missing. Enquiries are ongoing to trace the vehicle and to check if anything else has been taken from the property.
Authorities are appealing for witnesses and urge anyone who saw the car or any suspicious activity in Aldham from about 3pm on Monday 28 December to 1pm on Tuesday 29 December to come forward. Dashcam and CCTV footage could be crucial to the investigation.
Information can be shared online with Essex Police or reported anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.
Originally published by UKNIP.
