Arrest made in murder investigation – Barton, Oxford

Thames Valley Police officers investigating a suspected murder in Barton have this evening (25/4) made an arrest.

A 17-year-old boy from Oxford, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody at this time.

The arrest is in connection with an incident on Sunday when officers were called to an address in Brome Place, Barton, and located the body of a 50-year-old man.

It is believed the man may have been assaulted on the previous evening, but this was not reported to police.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Mike Roddy, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “I am still appealing to anybody that may have been in the vicinity of the shops near to Underhill Circus between around 8.30pm and 10pm on Saturday evening to contact us if you witnessed an incident of a man being assaulted.

“I would also be keen to hear from anyone who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage to please check this can contact Thames Valley Police online or via 101, quoting incident reference 858 (24 April).

“Alternatively, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Local policing area commander for Oxford, Superintendent Bruce Riddell, said: “This tragic event has naturally caused concern in the Barton community.

“We do not believe this incident to be linked to any previous violence-related offences in the area, and as such, we are treating this as an isolated occurrence.

“We also believe that the offenders and victim are known to each other.

“However, our Major Crime Unit is investigating the circumstances thoroughly and is conducting a number of lines of enquiry to ascertain what has led to the man’s death.

“We have made an arrest, and I would again urge the local community to not speculate as to the incident.

“You will continue to see an increased presence of police officers and staff in the area while our investigation continues, and if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to any of them, and they will be happy to address these concerns with you.

“I am proud of the strong community in the Barton area, and I would reiterate that we are making good progress in this investigation, and would ask anybody who has any information that may assist to please get in touch with us.

“I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the man who has died. They are being supported by specially trained officers, and I would ask for their privacy to be respected at this extremely difficult time.”

KB