A MURDER inquiry had been launched after a man was assaulted and later died in hospital.

John Hartgould, 46, who lived alone in Palmeira Square, Hove, was attacked at the junction of Western Road and Holland Road, Hove, at about 9.15pm on Saturday.

Det Insp Russ Whitfield, heading the inquiry, said Mr Hartgould had popped out to buy cakes at the b2 convenience store in Western Road and was accosted by someone he did not know as he walked home.

He was spotted by a passer-by and taken

to the Royal Sussex County Hospital where he died.

Devastated

Mr Hartgould ran and owned Kemp Town Antiques in St James's Street, Brighton.

His parents, who live in Norfolk, are said to be devastated.

Araceli Munoz-Castellano , who lives in Holland Road, said: "I went out at about half past nine and I saw a guy lying on the ground at the top end of the street.

"At first I thought there had been a car accident."

A man was arrested early yesterday in connection with the incident and was today being held in

custody.

DI Whitfield said: "We desperately need to speak to anyone with information or witnesses who saw anything in the area between 9.15pm and 9.45pm."

If you have any information on the incident, contact police on 0845 60 70 999

and ask for extension 55290 or Hove

CID.

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