The man found dead in Salford University halls of residence was a student, police confirmed today.
The 30-year-old, who has not yet been formally identified, was discovered by officers after a 36-year-old man approached a PCSO in the street, saying he was ‘responsible for a murder in Salford’.
The man then lead police to the area where the body was discovered, where he was subsequently arrested.
He remains in police custody for questioning.
Supt. Mark Kenny said, “We have not yet established a motive for this attack and it would be wrong to speculate, however we do believe it is an isolated, albeit extremely tragic incident.”
Police confirmed that multiple lines of inquiry will be followed, one of these being if the man in custody suffers from any mental health illnesses.
He went on to say, “The incident happened sometime over the weekend and we are trying to establish exactly when.”
“We have stepped up patrols in the area to reassure students and residents in the surrounding areas and there is a police liaison officer on site of the university 24-hours-a-day offering support to students who may have been affected.”
You can view Supt Mark Kenny’s full interview below.
Police have said they expect the scene to remain sealed as a crime scene for around three days.
Prof. Helen Marshall, Vice Chancellor of Salford University said, “This has come as a huge shock to us all, and our thoughts are with family and friends of the victim at this difficult time.”
“We are providing support to students and staff, we have dedicated phone lines set up for students and urge anybody with information to come forward.”
You can watch Prof Marshall’s full statement below.
The main support line for students is The Wellbeing Team – 0161 295 7008
Anybody with information on this incident is advised to call police on 101 or the independent charity CrimeStoppers, in confidence and anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Alternatively students can speak to the police liaison officer on campus.
