Detectives have launched a murder investigation into the death of 70-year-old Keith Gordon, a popular Hamilton resident.

The body of Mr Gordon, a Victoria Street resident and the son of the late labour and civil rights leader E. F. Gordon, a National Hero, was discovered at his home at 3pm on June 11.

Detective Inspector Jason Smith said yesterday afternoon that while foul play was not initially considered, a postmortem by an overseas forensic expert resulted in the case becoming a murder investigation.

He added that, in the wake of information from the community, a man described by police as a “person of interest” was arrested and questioned. The man, in his twenties, remains in custody.

Mr Gordon, the brother of former premier Dame Pamela Gordon and former MP Patricia Gordon-Pamplin, was described as “a very familiar and popular person within our community, particularly the City of Hamilton”.

Ms Gordon-Pamplin, a former minister, told The Royal Gazette: “I appreciate the public — if them coming forward gives more closure, I am tremendously grateful.

“We have to trust the police to do their jobs and take whatever steps are appropriate in bringing closure to this issue.

“My main concern right now is putting my brother to rest.”

Police are aware of an altercation involving Mr Gordon and others on the night of June 10 in the parking lot of the Ex-Artillery Club on Victoria Street.

Mr Smith declined to elaborate on the nature of the confrontation but confirmed that CCTV had been of assistance to police. He said the altercation had also been witnessed by passing drivers.

It occurred “almost directly across from the residence where Mr Gordon’s body was found”.

The home was described as a family residence where Mr Gordon lived alone.

Mr Smith added: “We believe, based on our investigation, that a number of persons witnessed that altercation, and heard in particular an argument taking place at that time.

“We are appealing for you to assist and help bring closure to the family of Mr Gordon, as well as helping piece together this particular puzzle.”

A family liaison officer has been assigned, and Mr Smith said police gave “sincere condolences to his family”.

The case began after officers responded to a report of an unresponsive male found at the home, and an on-call doctor certified Mr Gordon’s death shortly afterwards.

Mr Smith said nothing at the scene led officers to believe that anything suspicious had occurred. But after hearing concerns from the community, police launched an investigation.

Police continue to urge the public to assist with details on “the steps taken by Mr Gordon” from about 8pm on June 10 until the discovery of his body the next day.

Anyone with possible details is asked to call Mr Smith on 717-0864 or the senior investigation officer, Detective Constable Odessa Philip, on 717-2193.

The public can also assist by using the independent and confidential Crimestoppers hotline, 800-8477.