‘A big, big problem’ – Neighbours’ shock as murder investigation launched following ‘suspicious death’

‘Police are here for all sorts but a murder is something different’Police at the scene(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Neighbours told of their shock as police launched a murder probe after a man died in ‘suspicious’ circumstances.

The 50-year-old victim was found dead at a flat in the Alexander Park area of Oldham on Wednesday night. A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.

The cause of death is currently ‘undetermined’ but is being treated as ‘suspicious’, Greater Manchester Police. Today (Saturday) forensic investigators remained at the scene on Eldon Street.

Speaking to the M.E.N., one resident described the area as ‘troubled’ but said a the death came as a shock. They added: “Police are here almost every other day for little things, like arguments and fights. But a murder like this means this is a big big problem.”

Another said: “The amount of drama on this estate is unbelievable. Police are here for all sorts but a murder is something different.”

A third neighbour added: “A murder is shocking. This isn’t the nicest place in the world but it’s still not nice to be around something like this.”

A 64-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning(Image: Manchester Evening News)

Today officers were carrying out door-to-door enquiries as part of the probe and police remain on the estate ‘for community reassurance’, GMP said. The victim’s family have been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers.

Det Insp Andrew Barrett from Oldham CID said: “We are working hard to understand what has happened and get the answers his family deserve. At the moment, the man’s cause of death is undetermined, but enquiries are ongoing, and we have made an arrest to progress this investigation forward.

“We have already spoken to several people living in the area, but house to house enquiries are continuing throughout the day. We would ask anyone who may have any information about the incident to please pass this onto officers, as it could be of great assistance.”