Murder investigation launched after 75-year-old man dies

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a man in Heywood.

Police were called to the scene last Sunday (29th January) following reports of a concern for welfare of a man in his 70s at an address on Hardfield Street. 

A man, who has been named as 75-year-old Geoffrey Ives, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene and an investigation was launched by police.

Enquiries have since established that his death could be suspicious. No arrests have yet been made as of yet.

A small cordon remains in place at the scene with no disruption to the wider area.

The family of Mr Ives have asked for privacy at this time.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector David Moores said: " Our thoughts are with Geoffrey’s family at this difficult time and our specially trained officers will continue to support to them.

“Following the launch of a murder investigation, a team of detectives have been working tirelessly to piece together information and evidence.

“Our enquiries have now brought us to a point in the investigation where we are able to appeal to members of the public to ask for more information.

“Officers from the Rochdale district will be providing a visible presence in the coming days for reassurance as we understand that this incident may cause some shock and concern.

“We would like to reassure residents in the area that we will continue to investigate what we believe to be an isolated incident, with no wider risk to the public and would like to thank the public for their cooperation and patience so far.”

Anyone who has information or CCTV around the incident are asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident number 2696 of 29/1/2023. 

Also, a dedicated Major Incident Public Portal has been opened to receive information, and members of the public can directly submit images and mobile phone, dash-cam, or doorbell footage here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S52-PO1 

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