A grandfather died in hospital for months after tackling burglars who broke into his home.
Gordon Nicholass, 85, was attacked after confronting burglars at his home in Helmshore, Lancashire, shortly before 3am on April 29.
He was hospitalized after suffering head injuries and cuts to his face before being discharged.
But Mr Nicholass was taken back to hospital shortly afterwards and died on August 12.
In a statement, his family said: “Gordon was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and was known for his engineering skills.
‘He was always ready to do anything for anyone – family, friends, even strangers, you name it! Mister fix it, jack of all trades, we will all miss him dearly.”
An investigation is underway to decide whether the burglary was a cause or contributor to Mr Nicholass’ death following a Home Office post-mortem.
Police said the burglars caused “extensive damage” to Nicholass’ home, where he lived with his wife, but did not appear to have taken anything.
Gordon Nicholass died earlier this month after being injured during a burglary at his home in April
And officers said they believe the attack was targeted, but have not yet found the perpetrator.
Rossendale Police said its large investigation team was carrying out door-to-door inquiries and checking CCTV footage.
Chief Inspector Jill Vescovi said: “My thoughts are primarily with Gordon’s family and loved ones. We will continue to provide them with all the support they need at this time.
‘We are working hard to establish who did this and why, and I would appeal to anyone with any information, no matter how insignificant they think it is, to come forward and speak to us.
‘I would ask anyone in the area to check their CCTV/doorbell cameras for any suspicious activity, people or vehicles that may have been in the area around the time of the offense or in the days prior.’
