Teenager who murdered Paul Marsh in Atherton is named for the first time

17 year old Jordan Rance has been jailed for 21 years

Author: Nathan MarshPublished 8th May 2024

A 17-year-old boy can be named publicly for the first time, as he's jailed for the murder of a man in Atherton.

Jordan Rance (27/11/2006) pleaded guilty to murder at an earlier hearing. At court, reporting restrictions against Rance due to his age were lifted by the judge, allowing him to now be named.

At around 6.08pm on Friday 17 November 2023, police were called to reports of a man unconscious at a property on Samuel Street in Atherton.

Officers attended and found a 49-year-old man with a serious injury. Despite best efforts of the emergency services, Paul Marsh tragically passed away a short time later.

A murder investigation was launched and Rance, who was 16-years-old at the time, was charged with murder.

Rance holding a knife

The victim and Rance had been at the address together, with others, when an argument commenced between the pair.

The argument escalated and Rance was witnessed to lunge towards the victim with a knife stabbing him in the shoulder.

Rance and his friend immediately ran from the scene, whilst others at the address called for an ambulance and attempted first aid.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson said:

“This is a tragic case in which a seemingly innocuous exchange has escalated and resulted in a loss of life. Our thoughts remain with Paul’s family at this time.

“We also have a young person going to prison for a long time. This case should serve as a stark reminder that carrying a knife is illegal and you could be jailed if you're found to be in possession of one.

"No good can come from carrying a knife and self-protection is not a reasonable excuse.”

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