Pitsea: What we know so far about the murder probe

A man has been arrested in connection with the incident but detectives are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Here’s what we know so far:

What happened?

Police say a man in his 60s was walking his dog at 2am on Wednesday when he was attacked.

He is then understood to have returned home despite suffering a head injury.

It was until 11pm the same day he was admitted to hospital after his condition deteriorated.

Police sadly confirmed on Friday his health had continued to decline and he had died from his injuries.

A 47-year-old man from Basildon was arrested on suspicion of GBH after the incident but was then arrested again on suspicion of murder after the victim had died.

What else do we know?

Police say the assault was not random and believe the attacker was known to the victim.

It is understood the attack happened somewhere within the Malyons Mews area.

Police have increased patrols in the area to reassure the community and say their investigation is fast-moving.

The man arrested remained in custody yesterday and was being quizzed by detectives.

A cordon remained in place in Malyons Mews yesterday.

What have officers said?

Senior investigating officer, Julie Gowen, said: “My thoughts and the thoughts of everyone in my team are with his family and friends.

“The investigation is fast-moving and my team are working tirelessly to establish what happened in the lead up to the assault and the hours after it.

“Incidents such as this will understandably cause concern within the community. This is not being treated as a random attack. We believe there is no wider threat to the public.

“I would also reiterate my earlier appeal for anyone who may have witnessed the assault of a dog walker in the Pitsea area at about 2am on Wednesday morning to come forward and speak to my team.”

Acting Chief Insp Steve Parry, of Basildon Community Policing Team, added: “This tragic incident will naturally cause shock within our community.

"I know detectives in our Major Crime Team have worked through the night on this investigation and continue to make progress on it today.

“But I am also acutely aware of the impact it will have on the Pitsea community.

“There will be highly visible police patrols in place throughout today and into the weekend.

“My officers will be there to keep you safe and provide reassurance. If you do have any concerns, please speak to them.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information on it should call police on 101 and cite incident 1522 September 15.