DETECTIVES have launched a murder investigation after a man died from a ‘violent, sustained’ attack in his home.

Police were called to Sussex Drive, in Blackburn, at 12.50am on Monday after a man was found with serious head injuries.

Steven Thurston, 50, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Several police cars and vans were parked up on the road outside Mr Thurston’s home yesterday, which had been taped off by officers.

At the back of the home a blue crime scene tent was erected on a grass verge as investigators searched the house.

Police were seen conducting an indepth search of the area surrounding Mr Thurston's house.

A post-mortem examination showed Mr Thurston died of head injuries.

Police said no arrests have been made and anyone with information to come forward.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Detective superintendent Andy Cribbin said: “We believe a weapon has been used and we are currently trying to identify what was used.

“We’ve got a number of lines of enquiry we are currently following.

“We’ve got an open mind as to who was involved and how many at this stage.

“We’ve had a good public response from the public assisting with us with house to house enquires and CCTV enquiries in the local area and we are appealing now to anybody, if you know anything, please contact the police.

“We appreciate the public will be concerned about this attack on a gentleman.

“There are extra police patrols in the area and extra police around the surrounding community over the coming days.

“There’s no information to suggest at this stage anyone further is at risk.

“We are working tirelessly to find who is responsible.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

One Sussex Drive resident said: “I had no idea about what happened until I saw all the police outside my door.

“I was told there might have been a stabbing and that’s it.

“I was shocked to see so many police cars around.”

Another Sussex Drive resident said: “I have only been here for 12 days so I didn’t know anybody, but I saw the police cars in the morning.

“There were quite a few at the front and back, and it’s quite scary to think something that serious happened just near my house.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

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The last sighting of Mr Thurston was at 4pm on Sunday.

Detective chief inspector Zoe Russo said: “While we are in the early stages of our investigation, it is clear that Steven has been subjected to a violent and sustained assault which has led to his death.

“We have a team of detectives piecing together exactly what has happened, and why.

“We would now like to hear from anybody who can help with our enquiries.

“Maybe you were in the area of Sussex Drive on Sunday night or Monday morning and saw something, or perhaps you’ve heard someone talking about this incident."

Lancashire Telegraph:

In tribute, a family spokesman said: “Steven was the kindest, caring, loving father, son and brother, whose door was always open to help others.”

Several floral tributes were laid at the scene.

A card in one of the bunches of flowers said: “To dad, we are all going to miss you so much, your life ended too soon.

“Rest in peace. Love you lots.”

Another tribute said: “To dad, we love you, I really hope you’re in a better place, love you always.”

Anybody with information should contact the police on 101, quoting log 47 of June 10.