Murder probe launched with woman arrested after man found 'unresponsive'

A murder investigation has been launched after a man in his 50s was found 'unresponsive' at a property in Rochdale on Monday night (October 21).

Police and paramedics were called to a disturbance at a flat on Lower Falinge at around 10.51pm. Paramedics found the victim unresponsive on the floor before attempting CPR to revive him. He was tragically pronounced dead a short time later.

A woman, aged 48, has been arrested on suspicion of his murder. She remains in custody to be questioned by detectives, Greater Manchester Police said.

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Throughout Tuesday morning, officers could be seen in attendance with an evidence screen also erected outside an apartment. A cordon remains in place along Lower Falinge through to Toad Lane and Red Cross Street onto Samuel Ashworth Street.

Police were seen carrying out door to door enquiries throughout Tuesday morning amid investigations. Residents told the M.E.N they heard 'a lot of banging' at around 9.45pm before emergency crews were called.

One homeowner said: "Last night we heard a lot of banging and noise around between 9.45 and 10. I took my kids to bed and then we heard that. It was like somebody trying to break the roof, banging with something. My husband came in and the police came around 10.30."

Greater Manchester Police say the incident is believed to have been a 'targeted attack' and that officers are still working to trace others responsible. Anyone with information is being urged to contact the force.

Detective Superintendent, Phil Key said: “Detectives are working to determine the circumstances that led to this man’s tragic death.

“From our enquiries so far, we believe this to have been a targeted attack and a dedicated team of officers are working to trace those responsible.

“We are still keen to speak to anyone else who was in the area at the time of this incident and may have seen or heard anything suspicious.

“We would also urge anyone in the Lower Falinge area with doorbell or dashcam footage to please get in touch with officers if you can help by calling 101 quoting log 3748 of 21/10/2024.

“As we continue to investigate, given the severity of the incident and to provide reassurance there will be an increased police presence in the area."