A murder probe has been launched and one man arrested after a 32-year-old man died in a suspected shooting in broad daylight in east Manchester this afternoon. Emergency services were scrambled to the area around Welland Street in Openshaw at around 2pm, where the man was sadly pronounced dead.
Officers believe he died from gunshot wounds in what they are calling a 'targeted attack', and are appealing to members of the public for more information. Additional police officers have been deployed in the area this evening as detectives continue to investigate the shooting.
Witnesses report seeing an air ambulance land at Sandywell Millennium Green. Detectives later taped off Sandywell Street, Old Lane, Ettrick Close and Wheeler Street. Forensics experts were seen combing area for evidence. A large police cordon remains in place into the evening.
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In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said: "A 33-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident on Welland Street, Openshaw at around 2pm today (Saturday 25 March 2023).
"The victim - a 32-year-old man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. At this stage, it is believed he died as a result of gun shot wounds.
"Detectives are appealing for any information, especially relating to a second suspect who is believed to have fled the scene in a vehicle shortly afterwards and any CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage should be sent over to police as this may be crucial to the investigation.
"Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst, said: 'Firstly, my thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time. We are in the early stages of our investigation, and a team of officers are working extremely hard to understand a comprehensive timeline of events that will help us piece together what has happened this afternoon.
“Though we believe this was a targeted attack, we recognise that incidents of this nature will understandably cause concern in communities across Greater Manchester. There will be an increase of highly visible police officers in the area over the coming days and anyone with any concerns is encouraged to come and speak to us.
“Whilst we are appealing for information to trace a second suspect seen leaving the scene, I would urge people who were in the area at the time of the incident, or anyone who has mobile or CCTV footage that may be of interest to police to contact us as a matter of urgency as they may have information which is vital to our investigation.
“We are also appealing to motorists and residents in the area, who may have captured anything on Dashcam, CCTV or doorbell cameras to contact us. Every bit of evidence is crucial to the investigation and will be treated with the strictest confidence.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 quoting log number 1771 25/3/2023. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity - Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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