Murder investigation initiated after man dies following aggravated burglary

An inquiry into murder has commenced subsequent to the death of a man who was the victim of an aggravated burglary at his residence close to Bristol. Stephen Ridgeway, aged 72, had informed law enforcement that he opened the door of his dwelling on Tenby Road, Keynsham, during the early hours of Sunday, November 3. Accounts indicated that two individuals forcibly entered, assaulted him, and absconded with possessions such as alcohol and mobile phones. Emergency personnel were summoned to the location approximately 03:00 GMT, and he was transported to a medical facility. Nevertheless, Mr. Ridgeway’s health deteriorated, and he passed away on December 7. Avon and Somerset Police stated that a male in his thirties was apprehended before Mr. Ridgeway’s demise, on suspicion of aggravated burglary. This individual continues to be on police bail, subject to stipulations such as an overnight curfew. Initial results from a post-mortem examination indicated that the injuries Mr. Ridgeway suffered played a role in his death. The Major Crime Investigation Team of the police force is handling the case as a murder inquiry. During an appeal issued on Friday, November 8, law enforcement officers urged individuals possessing information or CCTV dashcam footage to present it. Detective Chief Inspector James Wasiak, who is overseeing the investigation, communicated that residents should anticipate a heightened police presence in the vicinity, alongside additional crime scene examination at the property. “We have no evidence of any wider risk to the community, but I’d urge anyone who has concerns to speak with the neighbourhood policing team, who will be a reassuring uniformed presence while we make these further enquiries,” he stated. DCI Wasiak further remarked: “If you were in the Tenby Road area between midnight and 03:00 that Sunday, 3 November, we’d like to hear from you.” “You may have noticed something which may not seem important in itself, but which could be key when connected with other information.” Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.