Man chased down street by axe-wielding attacker and hacked to death in Greater Manchester

Assailant calls police before fleeing scene

A man has been killed after being chased down a street and attacked by a person with an axe in Greater ​Manchester.

The 36-year-old victim died from his injuries at the scene.

Police were alerted of a disturbance just before midnight on Thursday in Partington’s Moss Lane.

The victim was chased down the road by someone holding an axe, who then launched a deadly attack on him, according to police.

The assailant reported the attack before fleeing the scene.

A 31-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in custody for questioning on Friday, police said.

Detective Chief Inspector Jonathan Kelly, from Greater Manchester Police’s Trafford district, said: “I would like to reassure the public that this is being treated as an isolated incident.”

He said the force has implemented an increased police presence in the Partington area while their investigation is ongoing.

“This a shocking incident in which a man has sadly lost his life.”

He said: “Our thoughts remain with his family who are being supported by specialist officers at this incredibly distressing time.”

Greater Manchester Police said the offender “caused significant damage to a number of unoccupied, stationary cars” before launching his attack on the victim, who has not yet been publicly identified.

DCI Kelly said: “Whilst we have a man in custody, our investigation is very much ongoing.”

He urged anyone with any information to get in touch with police.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 6777, quoting incident number 3649 of 28/02/20. Reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Additional reporting by Press Association