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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Ashlie Blakey

Forensics comb Manchester street as murder probe ramps up after Zikel Bobmanuel shot dead

Forensic officers are continuing to comb a street in Openshaw for evidence following a fatal shooting.

Sandywell Street was first cordoned off at around 2pm on Saturday (March 25) after police and paramedics were scrambled to the scene. A 32-year-old man, named as Zikel Bobmanuel, was tragically pronounced dead.

Police believe he died after being shot. A 33-year-old man was arrested following the 'targeted attack', while officers are continuing to hunt for a suspect who is believed to have fled the scene in a vehicle.

READ MORE: Two men suffer serious injuries in 'double stabbing' outside petrol station

This morning (Monday), crime scene investigators remain on the scene in Openshaw. Pictures show forensic officers on Welland Street, off Sandywell Street.

Several police vehicles are stationed on the road. A cordon remains in place as investigations continue.

Following his death, Zikel's family paid a heartfelt tribute to him. They said his youngest child was just six weeks old.

Crime scene investigators in Openshaw (Manchester Evening News)

His family said: “Zikel was many things to many people, he was a good friend, a hard-working colleague, part of a large extended family, but ultimately, he was his mother’s son, her pride and joy. He held the heart of his girlfriend in his hand and was a hands on father to his beloved children, the youngest just six weeks old.

"Zikel was happy and fulfilled, he was working hard to provide for his family and was never more content than when he was spending time with them. It is difficult to comprehend that Zikel has died under such tragic circumstances and the shock is profound.

"We are devastated beyond belief and find it hard to comprehend life without him. We would like to thank everybody for their kind words and the comfort their support has given us and respectfully ask for some privacy at this difficult time."

Zikel Bobmanuel (PA)

Previously, Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst, said: "Our thoughts are with Zikel’s loved ones at this heart-breaking time. As our investigation continues, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.

"Since yesterday afternoon, we continue to build an in-depth timeline of events leading up to Zikel’s death and we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry. Although we currently have one man in custody, work is ongoing to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.

"I would like to thank members of the public that have already shared information with us. Any information, regardless of how small, may be the key to receiving answers for Zikel’s family.

An investigation into the shooting is ongoing (Manchester Evening News)

“Whilst officers are gathering evidence from the scene and the surrounding area, anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident 1771 25/3/2023. Always dial 999 in an emergency."

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Forensics on Welland Street, off Sandywell Street (Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

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