Authorities are investigating the death of a southern New Jersey man who was found in his home on Christmas Eve, the victim of an apparent home invasion and beating.

Lakewood police say 45-year-old Miguel Rivera was lying face down in the hallway of his Laguna Lane home when his body was discovered at around 8 p.m. Thursday.  Rivera appeared to have sustained trauma to the head, Lakewood Detective Sgt. Greg Staffordsmith told the Asbury Park Press via email.

Rivera's death is considered suspicious.  An autopsy is scheduled for Saturday.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Lakewood Officer Michael Mooney Jr. at 732-363-0200, ext. 5341 or Ocean County Prosecutor's Office Detective Ray Gardner at 732-929-2027.

More From 92.7 WOBM