Murder investigation launched after woman found dead in Rochdale

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Royal Street, Smallbridge

A murder investigation has been launched after a woman was found dead in Rochdale in the early hours of Tuesday (23 April).

Shortly before 3am this morning, police were called to a house on Royal Street in Smallbridge to reports that a woman had been stabbed.

Emergency services responded and a woman – who is believed to be in her 30s – has sadly been pronounced dead.

A scene is currently in place at a house on the street and officers will remain in the area for some time.

A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.

Formal identification and a Home Office Post Mortem examination are yet to take place.

Detective Superintendent Howard Millington, said: “My deepest condolences and thoughts are with the family and friends of this young woman who has sadly been pronounced dead this morning.  

“While we have a man in custody, we are at this stage keeping an open mind surrounding the circumstances of her death and will continue to carry out our enquiries at the scene today.

“I appreciate what alarming news this is to wake up to this morning but I would like to provide some reassurance to people in the area that we have launched a murder investigation and will get to the bottom of what has happened.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 3400 quoting reference number 183 of 23/04/19 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.