Murder probe launched after off-road biker punch victim from Bedford dies

A man who was punched by an off-road biker has died.

The victim – named as 41-year-old Thady Joe Higgins from Bedford – was assaulted in Coventry at around 6.45pm on Tuesday (March 17).

It's understood Mr Higgins, who was visiting family in the city, had remonstrated with a man riding anti-socially in the residential area moments before he was attacked.

He suffered a head injury and died on Wednesday night. West Midlands Police's specialist family liaison officers are supporting his loved ones.

Mr Higgins’ family described him as a “gentle giant” adding “he didn’t have an aggressive bone in his body”.

A 37-year-old man arrested in connection with the incident has been released without charge. An off-road bike has been seized for examination.

Detective Inspector Justin Spanner, said: “Sadly there was nothing that could be done to save Mr Higgins’ life and my condolences go out to his family and friends.

“We need to find who attacked Mr Higgins and I’d urge anyone with information to contact the police. They can do that anonymously without leaving their name or contact details.

“People in the community know who is responsible. I should stress that if we find that anyone is helping him evade capture they will also be arrested for assisting an offender and may well find themselves in prison."