TRIBUTES have poured in for a “lovely” pensioner with a “gentle soul” after his body was pulled from the River Don earlier this week.
Cops launched a murder probe after 82-year-old Jim Harris’ body was found in the river in the Mexborough, Doncaster, on Thursday morning.
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Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Jim could not be saved and was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
A scene was quickly established which stretched around 1km of the waterway, as officers conducted enquiries.
South Yorkshire Police have since removed the cordon.
Two men, aged 30 and 32, who were arrested on suspicion of murder have since been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
South Yorkshire Police believe Jim, who was using a walking stick, was travelling in the area at the time of his death.
Tributes have poured in on social media from both people who knew Jim personally, and those who have been left shocked by the news who say he was “robbed of the time he had left”.
On Facebook Seansam Leonard wrote: “So sorry to hear this. Jim was such a lovely, kind gentleman. So, so sad. Rip Jim.”
Patsy Westgarth commented: “Rip Jim… I knew this old chap.. hope they get the culprits” and Julie Stead said: “Looks frail and vulnerable, so how anyone could be so evil is beyond belief. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Trudy Shaw wrote: “Jim had a gentle soul, I used to walk with him occasionally when out with his dogs.
“I used to worry about him walking on his own, because of the entitled low life wannabes we have on our streets today. It’s a sad day when you can’t walk anywhere for fear of attack.
“Condolences to Jim’s family at what must be a heart wrenching time.”
Wendy Cain wrote: “How could they. They want locking up for life. Condolences to his family and friends. Frightening world we’re living in be too scared to leave our homes soon.”
Lynne Podmore said: “Condolences to his family and friends. Absolutely disgusting that this poor man was robbed of the time he had left.”
Megan Ward wrote: “To live to that age and be cruelly murdered, when his retired years should have been at peace. Absolutely horrific, RIP Jim.”
Diane Harland said: “I have known Jim a long time. Rest in peace love, so sorry for your family. Fly safe.”
South Yorkshire Police are continuing to investigate the murder.
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 travelling 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.”
Call 101 or use the force’s online portal here, quoting incident number 154 of July 25, 2024.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
