Detectives investigating the death of Richard Crawt in Salford appeal for information

Detectives investigating the death of a man in his 40s in Salford are appealing for the public’s help to his movements prior him being found in the River Irwell.

• On Sunday 9 March 2025, we were called to reports of concern for welfare of a man at Riverside, Salford. 
   
• Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, a man – now named officially as Richard Crawt – was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
• We are seeking to identify a timeline of Richard’s movements to understand where and when he was prior to being found deceased.

On Sunday 9 March 2025, we were called to reports of concern for welfare of a man at Riverside, Salford.

Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services, a man – now named officially as Richard Crawt – was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

His passing is still being treated as unexplained at this time and enquiries are ongoing into the circumstance of his death.

We are seeking to identify a timeline of Richard’s movements to understand where and when he was prior to being found deceased.

He was using a blue tent (pictured) and it is believed to have been pitched on a sandy beach area near the meadows, Salford, on Saturday 1 March 2025.

Detective Inspector Justin Bryant from our Salford district said: “It has now been six days since the body of Richard was discovered in the River Irwell in Salford. Our investigation team has been working tirelessly to piece together a timeline of events leading up to this tragic discovery.

“We have been trawling CCTV footage, speaking with residents in the area to try and understand how and why Richard came to be in this location.

“At this stage of our investigation, we are still working to establish Richard's final movements and the circumstances that led him to the river.

“We need your help. If you were in the vicinity of the River Irwell in Salford around the Lower Broughton area and in particular the Meadows. Or if you had any interaction with Richard in the days before his death, please speak with us, no matter how insignificant it may seem to you.

“Richard's family deserves answers during this incredibly difficult time. If you have any information that could assist our investigation, please contact us on 0161 856 4585 or 101 quoting log number 2221 of 09/03/2025 or you can report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Richard’s sister, Anne Marie, has said the following about her brother: “‘Our Rick’ had a heart of gold, he’d just fallen on some hard times in life. He was known and loved by many.

“This has completely shattered our world, it doesn’t seem real. Please, if anyone saw him or has any information that can help us piece together his last few days please come forward, we just need some answers.”