Greater Manchester Police have launched a murder investigation after a 52-year-old man died following an assault in Rochdale town centre in the early hours of this morning (September 26).
Incident on South Parade
Police were called to reports of an assault on South Parade at around 1:30am. The man was found unconscious and taken to hospital for treatment, but died later that day despite the efforts of emergency services. His family are being supported by specialist officers.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a police cordon in place at the scene in the early hours, around King Street and Fleece Street nearby.
Arrests and investigation
Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody for questioning. The force's Major Incident Team has launched a murder investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Claire Brennan from the Major Incident Team said: “This is a heart-breaking incident in which a man has tragically lost his life.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with his family and loved ones who are being supported by specially trained officers at this incredibly difficult time.
“We understand an incident of this nature will also cause concern within the local community.
“I want to reassure people that we have a dedicated team of detectives working to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and understand exactly what happened in the moments leading up to it.
“Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident and our enquiries remain ongoing.
“We are now appealing directly to anyone who was in the South Parade area in the early hours of this morning and may have witnessed the incident, or seen anything suspicious before or afterwards, to please speak to us.
“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area as it could provide vital information to assist our investigation.
“If you have any information, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please come forward and speak to our officers on 101 or LiveChat quoting log 250 of 26/09/2026”
Appeal for information
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, has information, or has relevant CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage to come forward. Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
