A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a ‘gentle giant’ who was found dead after a suspected ‘targeted attack’.
David Read was discovered in a residential street in Blackburn, Lancashire at around 11.40am on Wednesday after police were called to reports of a sudden death.
The 50-year-old died of multiple injuries following the incident in Leamington Road, a post-mortem examination found.
Officers have arrested a man from Blackburn on suspicion of murder yesterday evening.
He currently remains in custody.
David’s family have paid a heartwarming tribute following his death and said: ‘David was a lovely caring man and had a strong bond with his parents.
‘He was known as the gentle giant and will be sadly missed by his family and friends.’
Lancashire Police said Mr Read’s family are being supported by specially trained officers.
Detective chief inspector Mark Haworth-Oates, of the force major investigation team, said: ‘My thoughts remain with David’s loved ones at this time, I cannot begin to understand the pain they must be feeling at this time.
‘While we have now made one arrest our investigation is very much ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who can assist to come forward and speak to us.
‘I am still keen to hear from anybody who knew David, particularly if they have had contact with him in recent days or have information that they think may assist our investigation.
‘We are also appealing to anyone who saw anything suspicious during Tuesday and Wednesday in the Leamington Road area or has CCTV or dashcam footage covering those dates.’
DCI Haworth-Oates added: ‘I appreciate there may well be some concern in the local area, but we do believe that Mr Read was the victim of a targeted attack.
‘I and my team will continue to investigate this appalling crime and we will not rest until we have brought those responsible to justice.’
