A MAN from Darwen arrested last year on suspicion of indecent assault and gross indecency against young boys has been found dead at his home in Heys Lane.

Gavin Fellows, 71, was found by officers who had gone to visit him as part of their enquiries but is believed to have committed suicide.

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A spokesman for Darwen police said: “We can confirm that a 71-year-old man was arrested at his home address in Darwen in August last year on suspicion of indecent assault and gross indecency against young boys.

“The man was subsequently bailed pending further enquiries but on December 3, officers attended his home address on Heys Lane in Darwen where he was sadly found deceased.

“There are no suspicious circumstances and a file will be prepared for HM Coroner. The man’s family are aware.”

Det Chief Insp Claire Mcenery, of the police’s public protection unit, said: “This is a tragic outcome.

“This was a complex and lengthy police investigation into allegations of historic sexual abuse including indecent assault and gross indecency against three victims who were young boys at the time.

“Any persons identified as alleged victims will continue to be offered any support or counselling that may be required.”

An inquest into Mr Fellows’ death will be opened at Blackburn Coroner’s Court on Thursday.