Detectives now treating Tommy Ward investigation as murder

Exactly six-months ago, former soldier Tommy (80), was found at his home on Salisbury Road, Maltby, with serious injuries and his £30,000 life-savings robbed. 

Tommy remained in a critical condition in hospital after the attack, but died on February 23.

South Yorkshire Police said a post-mortem examination had to be carried out before detectives could confirm they were now hunting for murderers.

Det Insp Richard Partridge said: “The post-mortem examination proved to be inconclusive and we are awaiting the results of additional tests to establish the exact cause of his death, to further piece together and uncover exactly what happened that night.

“However, we are now investigating the incident as murder.”

He added: “Tommy sadly passed away in February and his family have been left heartbroken and devastated, with the untold feeling of grief and sadness knowing Tommy will never be able to see his attackers brought to justice and behind bars.” 

Five people have been arrested in connection with the October 1 incident but have been released without charge.

Det Insp Partridge said: “The assault shocked what is a tight-knit local community and the support we have received from residents in Maltby, as well as the wider public in Rotherham since the attack has been very encouraging and I am extremely grateful. 

“We do still need your help to understand what happened that night Tommy was attacked and I would ask anyone with information to get in touch with us.

“Tommy did not deserve this and his family have the right to know why their much loved father, grandfather, uncle, brother, was brutally attacked in his own home.

“Someone knows what happened that night in October.

“I would ask that person to consider how they would feel if this had happened to a member of their family.

“Whoever is responsible for such a vicious attack on a vulnerable man does not deserve to be shielded by anyone, and I would again ask, even if you feel your information is not that significant, please, make contact with us as the smallest detail could be vital to our investigation.” 

A safety deposit box was taken from Tommy’s home, and a similar box was found in Kilnhurst two weeks after the attack, but police have said they could not determine if it was the same one.

“I want to appeal again to the local community,” added Det Insp Partridge.

“Can you remember a family member or friend behaving strangely in the days following the attack? 

“Did you see anyone with blood stained clothes, or anyone suddenly in possession of large amounts of cash?

“While we may have made arrests, the investigation is still incredibly active and very much on-going as we continue to follow up leads and conduct extensive enquiries, and I would encourage anyone, even with the slightest piece of information, to please get in touch with us.” 

If you recall any information that could help officers call 101 or email [email protected], quoting incident number 408 of October 1 2015. 

Or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.