An 82-year-old pensioner who was found dead in the River Don has been named for the first time, as two men arrested on suspicion of murder have been bailed.
Jim Harris is thought to have been strolling in the Mexborough area of the river with a walking stick on Thursday morning.
At 7.36am emergency services rushed to the river after reports of a body being found. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Mr Harris was tragically announced dead at the scene.
A crime scene was set up around 1km of the waterway, as South Yorkshire police force launched a murder probe.
Two men, aged 30 and 32, who were arrested on suspicion of murder but have since been released on police bail pending further enquiries. The crime scene has now been removed.
Jim Harris, 82, was found dead on Thursday morning in the River Don by emergency services
South Yorkshire Police were called to the River Don at 7:36am on Thursday following reports of a body in the water
The waterway was cordoned off for the murder investigation to take place but has since been reopened
Mr Harris’ next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Officers are now appealing for anyone who was around the River Don between 6am and 8am.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Tom Woodward, said: ‘As our investigation into the circumstances of this man’s death continues, we are asking members of the public who may have information to please come forward.
‘We are particularly interested in people who were in and around the Doncaster Road, Mexborough area between the hours of 6.00-8.00am on Thursday morning.
‘We believe Jim was traveling in this area at the time and was using a walking stick as an aid. Were you in the area or potentially have dashcam or CCTV footage? Please do share this with us as this could help us greatly as our investigation develops.’
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police online or by calling 101, quoting incident number 154 of July 25.
You can also pass on information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
