A MURDER investigation has been launched after a man was shot in Ashton.

Police were called to reports that a man had been shot in Birch Street at about 4.50pm yesterday (Wednesday, June 13).

The man in his 30s was taken to hospital where he died from his injuries.

Following two warrants executed by firearms officers in Ashton, two men, aged 29 and 32, were arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody for questioning.
A third man, aged 28, was later also arrested on suspicion of murder.

A cordon remains in place on Birch Street and Pellham Street.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Detective chief inspector Alan Clitherow, of GMP’s major incident team, said: “Tragically, despite the best efforts of paramedics, the man lost his life shortly after this horrific incident and we have specially trained officers supporting his family at this unimaginably difficult time.

“We have launched a murder investigation and officers will remain at the scene throughout this evening. I would advise people to avoid the area where possible as several road closures are in place.

“I want to assure the community that there will be an increased police presence in the area over the coming days and they are there for your safety. Please approach them with any queries or concerns that you have and they will try to assist in any way they can.

“If you have any information that could assist our enquiries or if you saw anything suspicious around the time of the attack, please get in touch as a matter of urgency.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 1592 of 13/06/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.