Detectives investigating the death of a man in Huntingdon earlier this year have arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of murder. The teenager, from Huntingdon, was detained this morning (Friday) and remains in custody as inquiries continue.
His arrest marks a significant development in the investigation into the death of 59-year-old Hamid Tawaab, who was found unconscious in his flat in Fern Court on 20 January. He was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.
Police initially treated the death as unexplained, but a detailed forensic post-mortem and further test results have since prompted officers to launch a full murder investigation.
A 35-year-old woman, also from Huntingdon, who was arrested earlier this week on suspicion of murder, has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Detective Inspector Verity McCann, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said the investigation remains in its early stages.
“Recent forensic findings following Mr Tawaab’s death mean we are now treating this as a murder investigation,” she said.
“We are appealing for anyone with information to come forward, particularly those who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in or around Fern Court at the time.
“I understand this will be concerning for the local community, but we believe it to be an isolated incident and are working tirelessly to establish what happened.”
Mr Tawaab, who was also known as Michael Vidale, has been remembered by his family as a “cheeky” and “intelligent” man with a passion for cricket.
In a statement released through police, his relatives said:
“He was an incredibly intelligent and likeable person with a cheeky smile, an infectious laugh, and a passion for cricket. He was a father, grandfather, brother and uncle, and we are deeply shocked and saddened by his loss and the horrific circumstances around his death.
“He is greatly missed, and we hope that he is at peace.”
Police are urging anyone with information to contact them online or via 101, quoting Operation Perugia, or to ask to speak with DI McCann.
This is an ongoing investigation. Police have confirmed that no further details will be released at this stage.
