Police investigate death of 77-year-old man in Southwest Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) Police are searching for the killer of a 77-year-old man who was found dead in his own home. Neighbors called 911 saying they heard screams for help.

Homicide detectives spent the night questioning relatives and witnesses at headquarters looking for a reason why someone would want to harm the 77-year-old victim. His body was found inside the home where he has lived for decades on Theodore Street in Southwest Philadelphia.

"In the first floor living room we found the 77-year-old homeowner laying of the floor with blunt trauma to his head," said Southwest Detectives Lt. John Walker.

Police believe the victim took his son to work at the airport Friday night. picked him up after work and then returned where he parked his work van in the rear yard. Police and fire were called to the house around 1 a.m. Monday to reports of a person screaming inside.

"9-1-1 reports three males, juveniles, one with black hoodie, one with gray, one with a white, fleeing the house,' said Lt. Walker.

Neighbors say the victim was a hardworking home improvement contractor and handy man who went to work every day.

Detectives say there was no sign of forced entry, but a window was broken out on the side of the home. The victim's van is missing and the back gate was left open, according to police.

"We need people to come forward and do the right thing and call our tip line 215-686-TIPS," said Lt. Walker.