Update: 1730 hrs
Statement from Essex Police
“We have launched a murder investigation in Grays.
We are able to provisionally identify the victim as 65-year-old John Hicks.
A 19-year-old man has been arrested this evening on suspicion of murder.
Mr Hicks was found with a head injury in London Road in the early hours of July 3.
He was taken to hospital after we were called at 12.50am yesterday, but sadly died this afternoon, Wednesday, July 4.
Senior investigating officer, Detective Chief Inspector Daniel Stoten, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: “We are keen to speak to anyone with information about the injuries John sustained before his death.
“We believe that there may have been an altercation in the High Street between 6pm and 7pm on Thursday, June 28, and would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed this incident, or have any mobile phone or CCTV footage.”
Specially trained officers are supporting his family. A forensic post mortem examination is due to take place tomorrow, Thursday, July 5.
Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101 quoting incident number 41 of 04/07.
Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ESSEX Police has launched an investigation after a well-known Purfleet man died after being found unconscious near Grays High Street.
An Essex Police spokesperson said: “We were contacted after a 65-year-old man was found with a head injury in London Road, Grays, at around 12.50am yesterday, Tuesday, July 3.
“He was taken to hospital in a critical condition and sadly died today.
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding how he became injured and his death is currently being treated as unexplained.
“We are liaising closely with the man’s family and coroner and a post mortem is due to take place tomorrow.
“We would urge anyone with information to contact us on 101 quoting incident 41 of 04/07 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The man has been named locally as John Hicks, popularly known as “Tattoo John”.
More to follow.
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