Murder probe launched after Wakefield man, 72, dies following alleged assault before Christmas
A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a Wakefield man after an alleged assault on the day before Christmas Eve.
On December 24, 2025, the ambulance service attended the home of Stephen Jedynak, 72, following a report of concern for his welfare.
Emergency services attended at his home in Crofton, Wakefield, where he was found unresponsive and taken to hospital.
Mr Jedynak was then pronounced dead on the morning of December 27, 2025.
Police believe the 72-year-old had been assaulted on Thorntree Court, Crofton, on December 23, 2025.
Following his death the case was referred to West Yorkshire Police by the Coroner’s Office and detectives from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team launched a murder investigation.
Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Michael Cox said: “I understand that this incident may cause concern in the local area and would like to reassure people that this was believed to be a targeted assault with no wider risk to the public.
“A thorough investigation is underway to establish how Stephen came to lose his life and his family are being supported by specialist officers.
“I would like to appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Thorntree Court area in the time surrounding this incident to please come forward.
“You can contact West Yorkshire Police online at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat or by calling 101 quoting reference 13250747179.
“Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”