Police have launched an attempted murder investigation after a man fell from a balcony at a block of flats in Salford in the early hours of Saturday, August 29. A man believed to be in his 20s was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remains in a critical condition.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said officers were called shortly after midnight to reports that a man had fallen from a balcony on Liverpool Street. A man, also in his 20s, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in police custody for questioning.
Crime scene on Liverpool Street
Rain poured as police officers and crime scene investigators worked inside a flat on the top floor of the building. A blue forensic tent stood on the pavement outside, just off the main road on Southern Street, while investigators moved in and out of the building.
One neighbour said they were woken by sirens at around 2am. "That's normal round here - you hear sirens and then carry on," she said, adding that her son had seen someone being arrested amid the emergency response.
Community shock and IOPC referral
Another neighbour, who lives in the building, said they had been kept inside their flat while police dealt with the incident. They said they were left in shock by the events, saying that they believed they knew the man taken to hospital.
"It's usually quiet on our block... I was only talking to him yesterday," they said. "We just speak to each other and say 'hi'. He's a lovely lad. You don't expect it to happen near your door."
Police have not named either man. The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) because the two men had earlier contact with police, GMP said. Officers said they believe the incident was isolated and that there is no wider risk to the public.
Appeal for information
Chief Inspector Lee Gridley, from GMP's Salford district, said: "A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and he is currently being questioned in custody. Our officers are working at pace to establish the full circumstances, and a scene will remain in place whilst the investigation continues."
He added: "We understand that incidents of this nature may cause concern within the community; however, we believe this is an isolated incident and that there is no wider risk to the public. We would like to hear from anyone who may have information that can assist us."
Anyone in the Liverpool Street area of Salford around the time of the incident, or who has mobile phone, CCTV, Ring doorbell or dashcam footage, can contact police on 101 and quote log 8 of 29/08/2026. Reports can also be made via the LiveChat function at gmp.police.uk, or alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
