Investigators are looking to speak to a 28-year-old man in connection with the murder of 83-year-old Donald Ralph in Aldham, near Colchester.
Mr Ralph was found dead by Essex Police at his home in Halstead Road shortly after 1pm on Tuesday.
Police believe Mr Ralph was targeted and have launched a murder investigation.
Mr Ralph's niece Tina Ralph has paid tribute to her uncle, describing him as a "unique character".
A 16-year-old boy from Leicester was arrested in Colchester on Wednesday evening in connection with the probe.
Essex Police has now confirmed officers are also looking to speak to a 28-year-old in connection with the incident.
Essex Police officers are also continuing to look for Mr Ralph’s car, a blue Volvo V50 registration plate HD08 YFV, which is missing from his house.
Police enquiries have shown that it was driven to Hastings on Tuesday morning.
Detective Chief Inspector Scott Egerton, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "I’d like to thank members of the public who have helped with our investigation so far so that we can get the answers Mr Ralph’s family desperately need."
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