Salford Rocked: Murder Probe Launched After Man Found Dead in HMO

A murder investigation has been launched in Salford following the discovery of a man's body at a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) on Great Clowes Street, Lower Broughton. Police were called to the scene on Wednesday morning, October 7, after a man in his 40s was found unresponsive inside the building on Tuesday, October 7. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he sadly died. Five men, aged between 24 and 35, have been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident.

The community has expressed profound horror and concern following the events. Neighbours reported a large emergency services presence, including police and an air ambulance, and a substantial cordon was put in place. Forensic officers were observed carrying out investigations in the early hours, with the property's front door taped off. Residents described the scene as 'scary' and 'very worrying,' with some noting the area has always felt 'dodgy' or that such incidents are becoming 'the norm.' One long-term resident stated, 'I've lived here for years... this is shocking to me. It's extremely worrying when you only live down the road.'

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Partington of Greater Manchester Police confirmed that five men are in custody and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man's death is ongoing. He stated, 'Our priority is to establish exactly what happened and we are keeping an open mind as we work to build a full picture of the events leading up to his death.' A post-mortem examination is being conducted to determine the cause of death. DCI Partington reassured the public that there is no wider threat to the community, and officers will remain in the area while enquiries continue, encouraging anyone with information to contact the police via 101, LiveChat on GMP's website, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The murder probe comes amid a series of 'high-profile incidents' across Salford that have caused significant concern and anxiety within its communities, prompting Salford Mayor Paul Dennett to issue a statement calling for unity. Alongside the Lower Broughton murder investigation, these incidents include an HMO on Kingsley Avenue in Kersal being trashed, the appearance of roadside banners opposing 'migrant HMOs,' and reports of anti-social behaviour and fireworks being hurled at people in Ordsall.

Regarding the Kersal incident, police were called twice on October 5 and 6 to an HMO on Kingsley Avenue due to criminal damage. Images revealed shattered front downstairs and upstairs windows, a removed front door, and debris on the ground. GMP confirmed this investigation is not linked to the murder probe. The incident occurred against a backdrop of heated political discourse around immigration and public anger over the use of HMOs, with social media speculation claiming the Kingsley Avenue house was a 'migrant HMO.'

Earlier in the week, banners with 'say no to migrant HMOs' appeared in Cadishead and Lower Irlam. Salford Council condemned these banners, stating they posed health and safety risks and were divisive, leading to their removal. A spokesperson for Salford Council emphasized that HMOs are highly regulated, occupied by diverse people, and applications are decided transparently with residents notified of planning applications.

Councillor Andrew Walters for Kersal and Broughton Park unequivocally condemned the attack on the Kingsley Avenue property, stressing that there is 'never any justification for intimidation, criminal damage or violence.' He warned against rapid misinformation and suspicion directed at individuals based on nationality, ethnicity, or perceived immigration status, asserting that 'racism, discrimination and violence have no place in our community.'

In Ordsall, worried residents made 999 calls reporting anti-social behaviour and the misuse of fireworks at Ordsall Park, with fireworks reportedly hurled at members of the public. GMP issued a 48-hour dispersal order throughout Ordsall to address a 'large group of youths engaging in anti-social behaviour.'

Mayor Paul Dennett reiterated Salford's motto, 'the welfare of the people is the highest law,' and firmly stated, 'Any attempt to divide people, spread hatred or target individuals because of who they are is completely unacceptable. The spirit of Salford is what unites us.' He assured that GMP would have extra officers in the area for investigation and reassurance, and reaffirmed that 'there is no place for hate, violence, intimidation or discrimination in our city.' The city is working closely with partners, including Greater Manchester Police, to respond to these incidents and ensure everyone feels safe and welcome in Salford.