The family of a dad who was shot and then doused in acid said they "cannot come to terms" with his "tragic killing".
Liam Smith, 38, was just yards away from his home on Kilburn Drive, Wigan on November 24 when he was discovered by a passer-by. He had been shot and his body was then covered in acid.
Police have now charged a 38-year-old man with murder, having previously made a number of arrests in connection with it. Michael Hillier, 38, from Ecclesall Road, Sheffield has been charged and he appeared at Tameside Magistrates' Court yesterday (January 24).
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In an emotional tribute, Liam's family said they would not be able to come to terms with his killing "until justice is served".
The family said: "Four weeks before Christmas - in the early evening of Thursday 24th November 2022- Liam Smith, a 38 year old man, was at home alone on one of the very rare occasions he wasn't with his children - two boys aged 15 and 11, upon whom he loved unconditionally.
"Not only was Liam a devoted father, but he was also a dearly loved, son, brother, uncle, cousin, grandson and friend.
"Liam's savage murder at his home address has sent complete shock waves of grief and despair amongst everyone who knew and loved him.
"Two young boys will now have to spend the rest of their lives without their adoring father, and the rest of our family will be forever haunted by this senseless act.
"Liam worked and grafted as hard as he could an electrician to give his boys the best start in life he could possibly give.
"We are doing this, not only to seek justice for Liam and his boys, but to protect any other family from going through the immense loss & suffering that we have.
"What happened to Liam could be anyone's dad, son, brother, grandson, cousin or friend...
"We are therefore sending out a heartfelt plea to anyone with any information to please, please contact the Police. This can be done anonymously.
"Anyone withholding information about what has happened, have clearly not witnessed the devastation such a heinous crime has on a family like it has done with mine.
"Liam's life wasn't the only one destroyed that night, so many other lives have been devastated by his murder.
"Our family cannot come to terms with this tragic killing of Liam until justice is served & we receive answers.
"Thank you"
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