A woman in her 20s has died after being stabbed in north Manchester, with three people arrested on suspicion of murder and assisting an offender following the incident in Newton Heath.
Incident on Dorking Avenue
Greater Manchester Police launched a murder enquiry after responding to reports of a disturbance on Dorking Avenue, Newton Heath, at approximately 2am on Thursday, October 15. The victim was found with severe injuries consistent with a knife attack and was declared dead at the scene despite paramedics' efforts to save her.
A 25-year-old man has been detained on suspicion of murder, while a 61-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All three remain in police custody.
Police cordons and forensic investigation
Numerous streets have been sealed off while detectives and forensic specialists examine the area, with cordons established on Edmonton Road, Briscoe Lane and Staplehurst Road. A forensic tent has been erected on Staplehurst Road, where investigators have been observed collecting evidence.
The Manchester Evening News understands the incident occurred during the early hours of Thursday morning. Several witnesses have told the M.E.N. they heard a disturbance before someone attempted to flee the scene, with at least one vehicle reportedly involved in a collision. One local resident told M.E.N. reporter Ludwik that a motorist had "tried to smash into a police van" on Briscoe Lane. Another eyewitness told the M.E.N.: "All the road is taped off. Police are not allowing any residents to drive out of the street."
Detective's appeal for information
Detective Inspector Paul Costello, from GMP's Major Incident Team, expressed his sympathies for those affected by the tragedy. He stated: "Firstly, my thoughts go out to the victim's family, friends, and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. Formal identification has not yet been conducted, but the believed family have been made aware and are being supported by specialist officers."
"This was an awful and tragic attack, but I would like to reassure the community that we have three people in our custody, and my team are working tirelessly to identify anyone else who may have been involved. There will be a significant police presence in the area, and multiple scenes are in place whilst our investigations continue. I urge anyone who may be able to help with our enquiries to please come forward."
Officers are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of the woman's death, with formal identification still pending. Witnesses to the incident, or anyone with mobile phone footage, CCTV or doorbell footage that might aid the investigation, are urged to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 5464 or provide details via the force's Major Incident Public Portal. Information can also be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
