Detectives were questioning six teenagers on Monday over the murder of a father-of-three who was attacked by a gang outside his home, police said.
Garry Newlove, 47, confronted a group of youths after they vandalised a mechanical digger and another vehicle in a street in Warrington, Cheshire.
"He's gone out to remonstrate with these youths after the damage has been caused," said Detective Inspector Martin Cleworth, of Cheshire police. "Tragically, he appears to have been set upon by a pack of youths."
Newlove was seriously injured in the attack on Friday and died later in Warrington Hospital. A post mortem examination is due to be held on Monday.
Six youths aged between 15 and 19 were arrested and are in custody at a Cheshire police station. Three others were held and later released without charge.
Police sealed off the road and stepped up patrols in the area. No weapon was used in the assault. Detectives have appealed for witnesses.
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