A NEIGHBOUR involved in a deadly confrontation with a burglar after reacting to a woman’s cries for help has been released from custody.

Homicide detectives investigating the death of the intruder in Frankston Heights say the neighbour heard screams about 1.30pm and ran to help.

The intruder — a male — was found dead in the backyard of the Cassia Grove property shortly after police arrived at the scene.

Police said today that the 33-year-old woman and the intruder who tried to rob her were not known to each other.

Her 42-year-old neighbour had been questioned by police but was released from custody, pending further inquiries this morning.

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Police are yet to identify the deceased man and have not detailed what injuries he sustained in the altercation.

Homicide Squad Sergeant Robert Nazaretian said they were still working through the circumstances of the altercation.

“What we do know is that there was a confrontation between the neighbour and the male intruder and it appears that male has lost his life ... The male intruder,” Sgt Nazaretian said.

media_camera Detectives outside the home. Picture: Richard Serong

media_camera Police on the scene at Cassia Grove, Frankston. Picture: Richard Serong

What exactly occurred in the house is still being probed and police do not know whether or not charges will be laid against the neighbour.

“ ... of course there will be a thorough investigation to determine what if any charges are relevant,” he said.

Sgt Nazaretian said the female occupant of the house, which is rented, had suffered non-life threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.

“She’s been conveyed to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Of course she is in a fairly distressed way.”

Police believe the intruder had made his way into the house before being confronted by the neighbour.

It appears his body was found in the backyard.

The investigation will also include a post mortem on the body to establish the cause of death.

Police would not detail his injuries or whether the neighbour was armed when he ran to the woman’s aid.

It is understood the neighbour is with police.

anthony.dowsley@news.com.au