Police seek CCTV witness to help in hunt for killer

May 29 2008 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

THIS man could hold vital information in the hunt for the killer who battered a frail 64-year-old widower to death as he slept in his bed.

Detectives are investigating the murder of David Gard, who had learning difficulties, at his home in Kensington in March.

Now, a £10,000 reward has been put forward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

This image shows a man who left Adelaide Road, where Mr Gard lived alone, and turned right on to Connaught Road 35 minutes before Mr Gard’s home was set alight.

Police want to speak to him as they believe he could be an important witness or have vital information about the attack.

The man pictured on the CCTV images is white and slim, with short, dark hair. He wears a dark waist-length jacket with a lighter colour on the inside, dark trousers and light trainers.

Firefighters who were called to the house at 4.20am, on March 13, discovered four separate fires in the living room and back room on the ground floor.

Upstairs they discovered Mr Gard, who had been subjected to a “senseless and gratuitous” violent assault in his bedroom. Local residents say drug users and prostitutes introduced themselves to him and would often call at his house in the middle of the night and stay there.

Police are still appealing for help in their investigation. They are asking members of the public to call them on 0151-777 8673 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.