A HOMELESS man who was attacked with red paint days before being found dead in a cemetery has been formally identified.

Michael Cash, 32, was discovered in Eston Cemetery, Middlesbrough, on Wednesday. His death is not being treated as suspicious, following a post mortem examination.

Police said they believed Mr Cash was the victim of a previous assault which led to him being covered in red paint close to Tesco Express on High Street, Eston, on Sunday, September 9.

Detective Inspector Matt Hollingsworth, of Cleveland Police, said: “My thoughts are with Michael’s friends and family at this difficult time.

“We are investigating the paint attack on Michael that occurred on Sunday 9th September outside Tesco and we are aware of the obvious feelings of outrage that this incident has caused within the community.

“This afternoon, a 33-year-old man has been interviewed voluntarily in connection with the assault and the investigation is still ongoing.

“I would appeal for anyone who directly witnessed anyone throwing paint on Michael that day to contact Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting 166668, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org.