Tributes paid to man stabbed to death in Harpurhey

William Phelan was found dead on Monday morning

Author: Nathan MarshPublished 22nd Mar 2018

The family of a man who was found dead in Harpurhey has paid tribute to him.

Police were called to Kilnside Drive on Monday morning, where they found the body of 39-year-old William Phelan.

A post mortem confirmed William died from multiple stab wounds, and a murder investigation was launched.

William’s family says: “We can’t begin to imagine life without William. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle and friend with a heart of gold.

“We can’t believe he has been taken from us in such a sickening, cruel and heartless way."

“We can’t believe this has happened and that he has been taken from us in such a sickening, cruel and heartless way. He was a kind gentle guy who wouldn’t hurt anyone; he was always smiling and loved listening to his music.

“He will be deeply missed and we would appeal to anyone who has any information, no matter how small, to please come forward and help get justice for William.

“We will love and miss him always.”

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Larkin, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “It’s now been three days since William was found and we are continuing to provide his loved ones with support at this incredibly difficult time.

“I met with William’s family earlier today and saw first-hand the pain and heartbreak that they are feeling as they come to terms with what happened. William’s death has left them truly devastated.

“We need to find answers for them and get the justice that they deserve and I would ask that anybody with any information that they believe can assist us contacts police urgently.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 6777, quoting incident number 705 of 19/03/18, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.