Police seek information into death of “well thought of” man in community

The body of a 49-year-old man was found by emergency services at a derelict building at Silverwood Miners Welfare Resource Centre on Doncaster Road on January 19 at 10.35am.

The man has now been named by family as Stephen Simpson, also known locally as Stephen Jones, and Bubba.

Following the announcement of his death, he was described in tributes as a “gentle giant” and a “top bloke”. 

Investigating officer Det Sgt Matt Barnes said: “It is clear from the many messages of support that Stephen was well thought of in the community.

“We’re asking that anyone with information, no matter how small you believe it to be, to get in touch. It may help us understand how and why Stephen has died.

“We’re particularly interested in understanding his movements between January 11 and 19.

“If you are a business that knows Stephen from him passing, please check your CCTV footage.

“If you’re a driver who remembers seeing Stephen between these dates please check your dashcam and get in touch.”

Anyone with information can report it to police via the online live chat, online portal or by calling 101 quoting incident number 274 of January 19.