POLICE today launched a murder-style hunt for a youth in army-type clothing after a 52-year-old Padiham man was found unconscious with head wounds outside his home.

George Havelock Jarrad was found by his 15-year-old son on the drive of their Warwick Drive council house shortly after 1am on Friday morning.

He was rushed to Burnley General Hospital and later transferred the the Royal Preston Hospital neurology unit where he underwent emergency surgery.

He died without regaining consciousness yesterday afternoon.

A post-mortem examination carried out by Home Office pathologist Edmund Tapp revealed death was caused by a fractured skull.

A full police inquiry team, led by Detective Superintendent Graham Gooch, has been set up in Burnley and police were today carrying out a fingertip search for clues in the Warwick Drive area.

Mr Gooch revealed a neighbour had seen a young man in army dress and carrying a rucksack and torch near the scene shortly after the incident. Earlier in the night police received a report of a prowler in the area.

Mr Jarrad had spent the evening at Rosegrove Railway Club and left for the one-mile walk home at around midnight.

He was seen to stumble on a number of occasions during his final journey.

His son heard the the door key in the lock and went to investigate when his father did not enter the house.

It is understood Mr Jarrod gave up work to care for his son following the death of his wife three years ago.

Det Supt Gooch said a full incident room had been set up at Burnley police station and anyone with information should contact police on Burnley 425001.

He said: "We are particularly anxious to contact the youth seen in the area so we can eliminate him from our inquiries."

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