Police Renew Appeal in Tommy Ward Murder Case as New Suspect Is Released on Bail
South Yorkshire Police have issued a renewed appeal for information in the ongoing investigation into the brutal 2015 murder of Tommy Ward, an 80-year-old pensioner from Maltby. The fresh plea comes after the recent arrest and subsequent release on bail of a 36-year-old woman suspected of involvement in the crime.
On Monday, August 19, police detained the woman on suspicion of murder in connection with the infamous case. However, she has since been released on bail as authorities continue their inquiries.
The incident shocked the community on October 1, 2015, when emergency services were called to Tommy Ward’s residence on Salisbury Road. Ward, who lived alone, had been viciously attacked in his home, with his life savings—around £30,000 in cash—stolen from a safety deposit box. The elderly man was rushed to the hospital with severe injuries and succumbed to them months later, on February 23, 2016.
Despite a thorough investigation that initially led to the arrest of 11 individuals, no charges were brought, and those suspects were released without further action. The recent arrest of the 36-year-old woman has reignited hopes of a breakthrough in the case.
Detective Inspector Matt Bolger, the Senior Investigating Officer, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in solving the case. “Tommy Ward was a vulnerable 80-year-old man who lived alone, and his life ended in tragedy,” Bolger stated. “Today, I am appealing to members of the local community who may hold vital information relating to this awful incident. At the time, you may have felt frightened about contacting the police, but I urge you to come forward now. We remain steadfastly determined to get answers for Tommy and his family, and this investigation will continue until we have secured justice.”
Police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted through South Yorkshire Police’s Major Incident Portal, contacted directly via their website, or called 101. When providing information, callers are asked to reference incident number 202 of September 28, 2020.
Authorities took a 36-year-old female into custody on Monday in connection with a suspected homicide. However, she has now been granted bail.
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