People have shared their memories of a dad who was brutally killed in a gun and acid attack.
Police were called at around 7pm on Thursday, November 24 officers to reports of a dead body on Kilburn Drive, Shevington, Wigan. Emergency services attended and confirmed these reports.
Officers have since identified the victim as 38-year-old Liam Smith from Kilburn Drive. Initial information indicates Liam was subject to a fatal gunshot wound and an acid attack.
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Today, shocked friends paid tribute to Liam, an electrician and former soldier who was a director of LPS Electrical and Build Ltd which went into liquidation earlier this year, reports the Manchester Evening News. Hundreds of people posted tributes to Mr Smith on GMP's public Facebook page.
Heidi Bradley said: "RIP Liam.. from you being a little 4 year old kicking about with my brother and us at school, game days, coming in our Grandad’s shop, and town drinks! Thinking of your family and boys.. rest in peace matey xxx."
Nicole Farrell added: "I'm in total shock, this is such sad news. Thinking of your family and my heart goes out to your boys. I hope your family find the strength. R.I.P Liam."
Paul Horrocks also said: "A lovely lad he worked for me before he went in the armed forces. God bless you and your family."
One of his friends Danny Yarrow said: "Rest in peace mate! Absolutely gutted. We had some great times together we will all miss you pal. Still can't believe I'm writing this! Thoughts go out to your family. Sleep well big man! Xxx."
Nicole Kirk said: "RIP Liam, you were a lovely guy. my thoughts are with your children and family xx."
Sam Shepherd wrote: "Absolutely gutted, you will be sadly missed fella, RIP my friend, thoughts go out to your family."
Polly Anna said: "Rest in Peace, I am absolutely in shock. Thinking about your dear children and your parents and family. May you rest easy. You always had a big smile on your face. My heart goes out to your 2 babies xxx."
Amanda Sever-Morton said: "Fly high Liam. We are truly heartbroken. We have lost a dear friend and will forever miss you xx."
Lynn Caroline posted: "Liam you’ve been such a kind and protective friend to me over the years, and to my son. How could this could happen to you... strength and love to your boys love. I’m truly heartbroken."
Anna Shepherd-Slowinski said: "I’m so sorry Liam you where genuinely a great person and always unconditionally lovely to me, Sam and girls my heart goes to your family and boys."
Dan Miller posted: "Liam you was one of a kind mate. Was a top bloke and friend. Life and soul at any party and one of the funniest, genuine people I've ever met. RIP my mate."
Last year, Mr Smith helped to raise fund for his friend, former footballer George Melling who died aged 37 after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease. In May this year, he posted on his Facebook page of his friend: "See you soon big man. You'll be missed."
According to Companies House, LPS Electrical and Build Ltd appointed a liquidator on May 25. Mr Smith remained the company's sole director.
A 'statement of affairs' document dated May 17 said the company had an 'estimated total deficiency' of £73,209. Detectives said they are working tirelessly to establish the exact details of the alleged murder, which "took place in unique and shocking circumstances on a quiet residential street".
Paying tribute to him, Mr Smith's family said in a brief statement on Saturday: "Liam was kind hearted, funny, the life and soul of the party. He was the most devoted dad, much loved son, brother, grandson and uncle. He will sorely be missed by all who knew and loved him."
Following examination and tests, the hazardous substances are believed to not pose any further harm, threat or risk to the public in the surrounding area and have been contained. Police are reminding people that if they have had direct contact with the body at the time they should still speak to officers or seek medical advice immediately.
A Home Office post-mortem has taken place and his family are being supported by specially trained officers. A scene is currently still in place at the location with no disruption to the wider area. Enquiries are also ongoing into what is a murder investigation following suspicious circumstances.
Any information can be given to GMP via the LiveChat function on gmp.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 910 of November 25, 2022.
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