Cause of death of Billy McNicholl, whose body was found in Hawthorn Drive, Ipswich, revealed as murder probe continues
The cause of death of a man whose body was found on an Ipswich estate last week has been revealed as a murder investigation continues.
Officers were called to an address in Hawthorn Drive, Chantry, shortly before 6pm on New Year’s Day.
When they arrived, they found the body of a man inside, who was later identified as 63-year-old Billy McNicholl.
A murder investigation was launched over the weekend as his death was believed to be suspicious.
A Home Office post mortem examination confirmed head injuries and a single stab wound as the cause of Mr McNicholl’s death.
Detectives remain at the scene nearly a week after the murder.
Residents can expect a heavy police presence in the area while inquiries continue – and anyone with information or questions should speak to officers.
A GoFundMe has been set up in the wake of Mr McNicholl’s death.
You can donate to the cause here.
Mr McNicholl used to live in Haverhill and was well-known in the community.
Detective Superintendent Mike Brown, of the Joint Major Investigations Team, said: “We continue to appeal for anyone with any information to come forward while the murder inquiry into the death of Billy continues.
“Billy’s family are being supported by specially trained officers through what is an extremely distressing time for them.
“A large number of officers and staff have already been involved in the investigation, with searches, house-to-house and CCTV enquiries taking place. Residents should expect to see a continued increased police presence over the coming days.
“We are exploring all and any lines of enquiry and currently believe this to be an isolated incident and I would urge anyone with any information, no matter how small you think it may be, to get in touch with police.”
Anybody with any information or who saw any suspicious activity in the area between December 24 and January 1 is urged to get in touch with police, quoting crime reference, 37/162/25.
