Suspect, 19, held over fatal attack on veteran
A GRANDFATHER and former royal engineer has been killed after an assault outside his home as police said they have arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
Frank Fishwick, 86, was left with facial injuries following an assault near his home in Preston on Friday at 3pm.
Police were called to the area where they found Mr Fishwick with a broken nose. He was taken to hospital where he died the next day.
A post mortem examination concluded that his cause of death was from the injuries he sustained during the assault.
Lancashire Police launched a murder investigation and a 19-year-old man was arrested on Sunday in relation to the grandfather’s death.
Police investigating Mr Fishwick’s death have released a picture and family tribute to the pensioner, who served in the Army Royal Corps of Engineers – commonly known as the Sappers.
A statement from his family paid tribute to his humour which “brought cheer to many”. “An adored father and grandfather who will be sadly missed by family and friends,” they said. “He served in the Army Royal Corps of Engineers and committed his working life to Leyland Motors.
“He was well liked by his friends, offered a helping hand when needed and his humour brought cheer to many.”
Det Ch Insp Allen Davies, of Lancashire Police, said: “First and foremost my thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends at this extremely distressing time.
“I appreciate this incident will cause residents a great deal of concern and we have increased reassurance patrols in the area. There are also officers carrying out door-to-door inquiries.”
A police spokesman added: “We are continuing to appeal for witnesses and asking anybody who witnessed the assault or who has any information at all that they think might help to get in contact with the police.”