Search continues for dog walker in St Annes believed to have seen assault in which a man later died

A dog walker is still being sought by police in St Annes in connection with an assault on a St Annes man who later died.
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Detectives are issuing a renewed appeal for information to identify a male dog walker who is believed to have the assault on Saturday, December 12.

Police were called by the ambulance service around 10pm to a report a man had been found unconscious with head injuries outside Atlas takeaway on St David’s Road South.

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The man, John McQueen, 53, from St Annes, was initially taken to Blackpool Victoria Hospital for treatment and later to Royal Preston Hospital for further treatment but he died on Tuesday, December 15.

John McQueen was assaulted outside the Atlas takeaway in St AnnesJohn McQueen was assaulted outside the Atlas takeaway in St Annes
John McQueen was assaulted outside the Atlas takeaway in St Annes

Detectives believe the dog walker could hold vital information to help assist the investigation. A 54-year-old man from St Annes was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the investigation and was bailed to January 15.

The dog walker is described as white, 5ft 8in tall, of stocky build, aged in his 40s to 50s, with thick grey hair, possibly in a ponytail. He was wearing glasses, grey pants, a brown jacket and was stood with a Jack Russell dog.

Det Insp Abi Finch-Hall, of Blackpool CID, said: “It is vital we find this man as soon as possible.

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“Since Mr McQueen’s death, we have conducted exhaustive enquiries to retrace his steps in an attempt to piece together what happened.

“We know the dog walker was outside Atlas takeaway and we are confident that the person would have seen what happened. Given the time of night and the fact this man was walking the Jack Russell, it is likely he lives in and around the St Annes town centre area.

“If you this is you, or you recognise the man described, please get in touch with the police or contact Crimestoppers.

“We would urge this man to identify himself so that we can continue to piece together exactly what happened that night.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 1492 of December 12. Alternatively you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.