Murder inquiry into death of Robert Flowerday in Crumlin
Police have begun a murder inquiry after a man was found dead at his home in Crumlin, County Antrim.
The body of Robert Flowerday, who was 64, was found in his house on Mill Road on Sunday evening.
Det Ch Insp Alan Dickson said: "Police were called to the scene after concerns were raised by a member of the public in relation to Mr Flowerday.
"When police arrived at his Mill Road home they discovered his body inside."
He added that the victim was last seen alive when he left Dundrod Presbyterian Church on Sunday at approximately 12:45 GMT.
The detective appealed for anyone who saw Mr Flowerday after this time to contact police.
Mr Flowerday was a retired teacher who used to work at Antrim Grammar School.
He lived alone in the house but was well known in the area and has been described by local residents as a quiet and gentle man.
He cycled home from church on Sunday afternoon and was wearing a high-visibility jacket, according to police.
"I am appealing to anyone who may have seen Mr Flowerday between 12.45pm and 9.50pm on Sunday 28th January to come forward and speak to police," the officer said.
"I am particularly keen to speak with anyone who saw or spoke with him at any time over the weekend, or anyone who was in his company."
'Shock and horror'
Ulster Unionist councillor Paul Michael told the BBC's Evening Extra programme that there was a heavy police presence at the property on Monday, including forensic investigators.
"By lunchtime today, residents in Crumlin were becoming concerned about the taped up entrance," he said.
"There are flowers being left at the scene and the death has raised many questions.
"There is a sense of shock and horror in the community," he added.
It is believed that Mr Flowerday had previously expressed concerns about anti-social behaviour in his local area.