A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man in his 80s was found dead at a property in a village.

Detectives were called to Halstead Road, Aldham, at about 1pm yesterday afternoon following reports a man had been found unresponsive inside a property in the street.

Sadly, despite the efforts of paramedics, the victim, a man in his 80s was pronounced dead at the scene.

Essex Police have since launched a murder investigation following the incident.

Witnesses spotted several police cars in the area throughout the afternoon while investigations continued at the scene.

Detectives are appealing for witnesses who were in the area or may have seen anything suspicious from Monday afternoon onwards.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the area from 3pm on Monday, and may have witnessed anything suspicious.

“We’d also like to hear from anyone who has doorbell footage, dashcam footage or CCTV in the local area.

“Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact our Major Crime Team on 101 quoting incident 512 of 29 December or please email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk.”

Information can also be given anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.