Man arrested on suspicion of murder in Sidmouth

Police in Devon have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man who was allegedly assaulted in a Sidmouth pub.

Officers were called shortly after 10pm on Thursday 26 September to the Blackhorse Hotel after receiving a report that a man had been assaulted.

A 71-year-old man was found at the scene.  Despite efforts of officers and paramedics the man was pronounced deceased a short time later.  It is understood the man was visiting the area. Next of kin are currently being sought.

A 41-year-old local man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and is in police custody in Exeter.

A police spokesman said: “We believe this is an isolated incident.  We understand news of this incident will be troubling for many in the Sidmouth area and to reassure local people there will be some extra officers on patrol in the town.”

Police would like to appeal for anyone with any information about this incident, particularly if they were in the Blackhorse Hotel from late afternoon into the early evening.

Contact 101 quoting reference KS/13/554.