Police are investigating the killing of an 82-year-old Scarborough man who was attacked in his front yard.

Police say James Pearson was attacked by an unknown assailant at about 8:15 Sunday morning.

He was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police didn’t say how Pearson was injured. They’re calling it a random attack.

State and Scarborough police are investigating.

Residents are being asked by police to maintain awareness of their surroundings and report any unusual activities.

Pearson was a former teacher and Christmas tree farmer who was well-known throughout the community.