UK police seeking two Irish men after death of 87-year-old after burglary

Arthur Gumbley died following violent attack in his home

UK police have warned that Jimmy Michael Connors, 28, and Tom Joseph Ward, 17 are violent and should not be approached.
UK police have warned that Jimmy Michael Connors, 28, and Tom Joseph Ward, 17 are violent and should not be approached.

Police in the UK are seeking two men, believed to be Irish, in connection with the death of an 87-year-old man following a violent burglary.

Arthur Gumbley died in December after being attacked in his home in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham the previous month. Valuable jewellery was stolen from the property.

Police have issued an appeal for assistance in tracing the whereabouts of two men described as having Irish accents and links to a number of areas in England.

"Following an extensive investigation, we are keen to talk to Jimmy Michael Connors, 28, and Tom Joseph Ward, 17, about their whereabouts on the day of the incident," Staffordshire Police said in a statement.

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Mr Connors is described as being 5 foot 5 inches in height and of average build. Mr Ward, is known to occasionally live in Stoke-on-Trent, is described as being 5 foot 8 inches in height, and also of average build. Investigators have warned the public not to approach the men as they are considered violent.

While the men are believed to be Irish, their nationality has not been confirmed.

"Both men have links throughout the country and are known to frequent the London, Birmingham, Stoke-on-Trent and Yorkshire areas," said Detective Inspector Dan Ison, the senior investigating officer.

“It is imperative they are caught as soon as possible and help from the public is needed to track them down.”

Anyone with information is asked to made contact with Staffordshire Police. Information leading to their location may result in a Crimestoppers reward of up to £10,000 (€11,230).

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard is a reporter with The Irish Times