A frantic teenager called police as her mum was being brutally knifed to death in their home.
The 13-year-old girl raised the alarm after a 36-year-old man launched the savage attack on mum Melissa Belshaw, who was left with ‘catastrophic’ injuries.
Another man, in his 40s and understood to be a neighbour, tried to intervene but was left seriously hurt after also being stabbed, the Manchester Evening News reports.
He is currently being treated in hospital, where his condition is described as stable, but 32-year-old beautician Melissa could not be saved.
Police arrived on the scene in Wigan, Greater Manchester, within minutes and detained the knifeman who is now being questioned on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.
Superintendent Chris Bridge praised the actions of Melissa's daughter, who he said was being given specialist support following the 'horrendous' incident.
"This lady's 13-year-old daughter was present at the time. As a result of her contacting police, we were able to attend and arrest this man.
"I cannot possibly imagine what this girl is going through. It must [have been] an horrendous experience. She is being provided with support at this time from specially-trained officers.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to her and other family members.
Detectives believe there may have been a number of witnesses to the incident, and have urged them to come forward to assist with the investigation.
"The community of Wigan and Billinge will be appalled by this abhorrent and horrendous incident.
"It was a sunny afternoon and there were a number of people who were in the area.
“We are aware that there are people who have not come forward at this time who were taking footage on their phones or other devices.
“They potentially have vital evidence that could prove crucial to this investigation.
"I would urge those people, if you have information, please come forward for the sake of this lady and her family."
Heartbroken pals have paid tributes to the “caring and loving” mum of one, who is said to have been looking forward to opening her own beauty salon.
Floral tributes have been left at the scene in the village of Billinge, where a community has been left in utter shock.
One message praised 'the bravery' of Melissa's 'little girl'.
In a tribute penned on Facebook - shared here with her permission - Kimberley Phillips wrote: "Melissa must have been terrified beyond belief, her daughter scared to death - now scarred for the rest of her life.”
Call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111
