A murder inquiry is continuing following the discovery of the body of a man at a bungalow late on Saturday.
Kenneth Auger, 64, was described as a "giant" with a "heart of gold" by neighbours.
Forensic officers are examining his home at a sheltered housing complex in Twynyrodyn, Merthyr Tydfil.
Police are continuing to question a 60-year-old man on suspicion of murder. They want anyone who heard or witnessed an altercation to contact them.
'Reassure the community'
An area of Greenwood Close to the south of the town was cordoned off, as investigations continued. A post-mortem examination was due to take place.
Police were alerted at around 2330 GMT on Saturday.
Supt Paul Kemp, from South Wales Police, said Mr Auger's family had been informed.
"Although the deceased has not yet been formally identified, at this stage we believe he is the occupant of this property and his family is being supported by a specially-trained family liaison officer," he said.
"I would like to reassure the community that a full investigation is underway and a man, who we believe he is known to the deceased, is in custody."
Neighbours said they were shocked by the death.
Jean Donoghue, 68, described Mr Auger, who was unmarried and had no children, as her "best friend".
Mrs Donoghue said she had known him for 20 years, and was planning to spend Christmas Day with him.
"It's breaking my heart," she said.
"He loved everybody, and he loved life. He was a happy-go-lucky person, and had a wonderful personality and sense of humour.
"Ken would help anybody. I thought the world of him."
She said Mr Auger attended a Mormon church with her and and her family and called him a "giant" who "wouldn't hurt a fly" and loved children.
A 42-year-old friend, who did not want to be named, said: "You wouldn't wish for a better neighbour.
"He was absolutely tremendous. He was very timid, and had a heart of gold. If he had a pound, he would give it to you.
"It's a tragedy this has happened."
Supt Kent said he was particularly keen to hear from anyone who might have witnessed or overheard an altercation in the vicinity of the bungalow in Greenwood Close, sometime between 0900 and 2300 GMT on 20 December.
Anyone with any information in connection with the death is asked to contact the incident room at Mountain Ash police station on 01443 743678 or anonymously through CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.
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