Hunt to find reclusive murder victim's long lost family

Detectives investigating the murder of a recluse in Essex are appealing to find his long lost family before his funeral.

Albert Williams, 67, lived alone in Southend for many years but close friends have told police that he had spoken about an ex-wife and two sons.

Officers are now appealing for more information to find any family to make them aware of Mr Williams’ death and his forthcoming funeral.

Mr Williams was found dead at his flat at Cedar Close on Saturday August 8.

His body was discovered when fire crews were called to deal with a fire at the flat. A forensic post mortem examination established that he had been assaulted and died from internal injuries.

Police say Mr Williams was a virtual recluse.

Anyone with information about Mr Williams’ family or anyone with information about his death should contact the Stanway Major Investigation Team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

A 39-year-old man of no fixed address has been arrested on suspicion of murder, a 43-year-old man, also of no fixed address, arrested on suspicion of murder and robbery and a 42-year-old man from Southend arrested on suspicion of murder: all have been bailed pending further enquiries.