An 85-year-old grandfather has died in hospital months after confronting burglars who broke into his home, an incident that occurred in April. Gordon Nicholass was assaulted on April 29 at his residence in Helmshore, Lancashire, shortly before 3 a.m. after he tackled the intruders.
Nicholass sustained head injuries and cuts to his face during the confrontation and was initially hospitalized. He was later discharged but was readmitted to the hospital and died on August 12. His family described him as a "wonderful husband, dad and granddad" and a "lifelong motorcycle enthusiast" known for his engineering skills and willingness to help others.
An ongoing investigation is seeking to determine if the assault during the burglary was a cause or contributor to Nicholass's death. A Home Office post-mortem examination has been conducted.
Police reported that the burglars caused extensive damage to Nicholass's home, where he lived with his wife, but it did not appear that anything was stolen. Detectives believe the attack may have been targeted, but no offender has yet been identified. The major investigation team is conducting house-to-house inquiries and reviewing CCTV footage. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to come forward. Residents in the area are also being asked to check CCTV and doorbell cameras for any suspicious activity, people, or vehicles that may have been present around the time of the incident or in the preceding days.