State police are investigating the apparent homicide of an East Butler man.

James S. Martin, 74, was found dead this morning at his home at 138 Tenth St., authorities said.

An autopsy is planned Sunday but investigators did not immediately release a preliminary cause of death.

A friend called 911 about 9:10 a.m. after discovering Martin's body in the kitchen area of his split-level entry house. The friend had stopped by the home to pick him up to go to breakfast.

The friend, however, got no answer at the front door. When she walked in, authorities said, she noticed blood throughout the house. She saw Martin's body moments later and immediately called 911.

Police said neighbors reported hearing 4 to 6 gunshots between 10:15 and 10:45 p,m, but no one reported it to police at that time.

A contingent of police criminal investigators gathered at the house to begin looking for clues.

Butler County Coroner William Young III pronounced Martin dead about noon. Young said he did not know how long the victim had been dead.

Police are saying little about their investigation. It was not known if there are any suspects.

Martin on Nov. 25 reported to police that his home was burglarized The victim at that time also told police that a man he knew had made threats against him.