French authorities have launched a murder investigation after an 85-year-old British pensioner was found beaten to death at his remote home in southwestern France. The victim, identified locally as John A, was discovered in the early hours of Saturday in the garden of his property near the small village of Verlus, located about two hours by car from Toulouse in the Gers département.

Police began investigating after attempting to stop two men driving the pensioner’s Kia car, which was being operated erratically. The occupants fled on foot, prompting a search still underway as of Sunday. Using the vehicle’s license plates, officers traced the car to the victim’s address, where they found the man deceased.

Initial assessments by medical personnel indicated the pensioner suffered severe head and facial injuries consistent with a violent attack. Authorities described the wounds as the likely cause of death, although a post-mortem examination was scheduled to provide confirmation. Investigators noted signs of a struggle inside the house, suggesting the victim resisted his assailants.

Local officials and neighbors expressed shock at the incident. Jean Menvielle, the mayor of Verlus—a village with approximately 120 residents—said the victim had lived in the area for around 20 years with his wife, who was reportedly hospitalized at the time of the attack. Neighbors characterized the man as friendly and well-liked, albeit somewhat isolated due to the secluded location of his home and limited French language skills.

The motive behind the assault remains unclear. Prosecutors from Agen, overseeing the inquiry, stated it was not yet known whether the crime was motivated by theft or another factor. The police continue their search for the two suspects who fled the scene.

The case has left the small community reeling, with residents struggling to understand why such a violent act would occur in their quiet village. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to apprehend those responsible.