Greater Manchester Police has arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Alisha Samuels in Newton Heath. The arrest took place in the Merseyside area, police confirmed on Monday, October 19.
The suspect remains in custody for questioning. Police have stressed that although the arrest is a significant development, the investigation is not over, and officers are continuing to search for others believed to be involved in the incident.
Police called to disturbance on Dorking Avenue
Officers were initially called to reports of a disturbance on Dorking Avenue in Newton Heath at around 2am on Thursday, October 15. Alisha was pronounced dead at the scene after suffering stab wounds. A murder investigation was subsequently launched, with a large police presence maintained in the area over the following days.
Tributes on social media described Alisha as a ‘beautiful soul’.
Previous arrests and ongoing inquiry
Earlier in the investigation, a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder but was later confirmed to no longer be treated as a suspect. A 61-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, though their current status has not been confirmed.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Justin Bryant said: “We are still seeking information for Alisha's heartbreaking death, and a number of our teams are dedicated to locate those we believe were involved.”
“We have another man in custody, but our investigation is not over. We are working tirelessly to establish the full circumstances of this attack, and to provide Alisha's family with some answers. My thoughts remain with them as they navigate this tremendous loss,” he added.
Appeal for witnesses and footage
Detective Chief Inspector Bryant thanked those who have already contacted police and urged anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with mobile phone, CCTV, or doorbell footage are asked to call GMP on 0161 856 5464 or contact the Major Incident Public Portal. The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
