An elderly man was killed and the house containing his body was set on fire Monday night in Northeast Baltimore, police said.
Police and firefighters are investigating the man's death as a homicide and the house fire on the 3300 block of The Alameda as an arson.
Police on Tuesday identified the man as Charles Ervin, 83, who was found by members of the fire department. Police said he had signs of trauma and was living alone. Donny Moses, police spokesperson, said it is unclear whether Ervin died from the trauma or as a result of the fire.
The home was intentionally set ablaze, police said, but have not identified a suspect.
"This is a sad mystery," Moses said.
Police began canvassing Ednor-Gardens-Lakeside early Tuesday, with 50 Baltimore police trainees going door-to-door seeking more information about the crime and searching the alley behind the home. The home was taped off, but showed little signs of fire damage on the exterior as homicide detectives investigated.
Firefighters were called to the scene around 8:45 p.m. Light smoke showed from a rear window on the second floor, firefighters said. The man was pronounced dead on the scene.
Neighbors say the area is generally quiet. Betty Butler, 68, said she often waved to Ervin when he was out mowing his lawn, but did not know him.
"This is a pretty good neighborhood," Butler said. The 30-year area resident said residents have installed home security systems recently but she feels safe.
A number of homes in the area have security system signs in their yards, including Ervin's neighbors. No sign was visible on Ervin's lawn.
Baltimore police are asking anyone with information to call Metro crime stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP.