Murder investigation launched following death of man in Saddleworth

It's believed the victim may have been involved in a fight in the street before his death.

Author: Victoria GloverPublished 22nd Dec 2018

Police have launched a murder investigation after a man died following an altercation in Saddleworth.

Police were called to High Street in Uppermill just before 11.30pm last night (Friday 21st December) to reports that a man had collapsed with head injuries.

Emergency services attended and the man was rushed to hospital, where he sadly died a short time later.

Further enquiries have established that the man, who is believed to be in his 30s, had been involved in a fight on the street just before his death.

A Home Office Post Mortem is due to take place later today.

Two 24-year-old men were arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault but have since been further arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody for questioning.

Detectives investigating the man’s death are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. They are particularly keen to speak to a man who spoke with officers when they first attended the scene.

This man is described as possibly being in his 40s and was wearing a pale blue short sleeved polo style shirt and dark trousers with short black hair. Police believe he may hold key information that could be important to the investigation.

A scene remains in place as enquiries are carried out so commuters are advised to avoid the area where possible.

Detective Chief Inspector Liz Hopkinson, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “This is an incredibly sad incident which has resulted in the death of a man, only a few days before Christmas. We are working to provide his family with support from specially trained officers at this difficult time.

“We currently have two men in custody, who will be questioned by detectives later today, however I would like to continue to appeal for anyone who may have information to please come forward.

“In particular, we would like to speak with a man that spoke with officers when they first arrived at the scene last night. This man is described as possibly being in his 40s and was wearing a pale blue short sleeved polo style shirt and dark trousers with short black hair.

“We believe he may hold key information that can help our investigation so if you know who this man is or you recognise it to be yourself, please get in touch with police.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 9283 or the independent charity Crimestopppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.