The man at the centre of a murder investigation in Rochdale has been named locally as John McGarry. Police were called to a report of a 'concern for welfare' of a man at a property on Curzon Road in Kirkholt shortly before 8pm on Wednesday (October 7).
Emergency services attended. A man in his 50s was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, Greater Manchester Police said.
The man has now been named locally as John McGarry. He is understood to have been 56, a father and a Rochdale AFC supporter.
Arrest and police response
A man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of his murder and is currently in custody for questioning.
GMP said detectives were working 'at a pace' and that they are 'keeping an open mind' and 'exploring all lines of enquiry' in order to 'establish the full circumstances' surrounding Mr McGarry's death.
Tributes and community reaction
Tributes are being paid to Mr McGarry on social media. One woman said: "So gutted fly high mate." Another said: "So sad r.i.p John." A third said: "What a horror condolences to the Mcgarry family x"
A man said: "One my good friends r.ip pal up the dale shocked" Whilst another said: "Sad news fly high John."
A man who said he had known Mr McGarry for over 40 years described him as a 'gentle giant'. He said: "He was a gentle giant, he was a tall lad. We used to go school with him, he was a really, really nice gentleman. We've grown up around here, everyone knew him and we've been talking about how shocked we are. It's a sad thing."
Witness account and police statement
A young mum described the moment cops arrived on Curzon Road. She said: "There was a lot of police cars, ambulance and CIDs. Forensics were going in and out of the house, as well. They were taking things out of the house. There's been all sorts going on for weeks."
In a statement, Detective Superintendent Richard Hunt from GMP said: "Firstly, our thoughts remain with the family of the man who sadly died, and we have officers assigned to support them through this difficult time. An investigation is underway and officers are working at pace to establish the circumstances which led to this man’s death. We currently have a man in custody for questioning and ask the public to refrain from speculating at this time. This is a live investigation, and we are currently exploring all avenues of enquiry and keeping an open mind."
"A scene will remain in place for several days. You may also notice an increased presence of officers in the area to provide reassurance. Please feel free to chat to them if you have any concerns."
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to get in touch with police on 101 and quote log 3344 of 07/10/2026, or you can make a report via the LiveChat function at gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
