A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a fatal stabbing in Rochdale on New Year’s Day. Emergency services were called to the incident on Sussex Street at around 2.30am on Wednesday (January 1).
Police said the victim, a 38-year-old man, sustained a ‘severe knife wound’ in the early morning disturbance. He was found on nearby Essex Street and pronounced dead at the scene.
Another man, aged 30, suffered ‘serious injuries’ in the incident and was rushed to hospital from the scene. Police said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the attack, which was described as ‘targeted’.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene
(Image: Kenny Brown / Manchester Evening News)
A murder investigation was launched by specialist detectives from GMP’s Major Incident Team. A man in his 30s has now been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The police investigation was focusing on two areas throughout Wednesday. There was a scene on Essex Street where a forensics tent was erected, and another a short distance away on Milkstone Road and Sussex Street where a paramedics bag could be seen abandoned on the pavement.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward following the incident.
Detective Inspector Paul Davies from GMP’s Major Incident Team said: ”This is a truly tragic incident, and the thoughts of the entire investigation team remain with the victim’s family and loved ones as they come to terms with his loss.
Forensic teams were at the scene on New Year’s Day
(Image: Kenny Brown / Manchester Evening News)
“While we have one man in custody, we are continuing to appeal to the public and the local community for any information they may have about this incident. No matter how small the information may seem, it may be crucial to our investigation and assist us in providing answers for a grieving family.
“If you were in the area on New Years Day, and perhaps heard or saw something that seemed suspicious, please come forward and speak to us. We would also like to speak to people who have any footage, including doorbell, dashcam, or CCTV that may have captured the incident, the moments before, or the aftermath.”
Anyone with additional information is asked to call 101 quoting incident 715 of 01/01/2025. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.