On New Year's Day, a woman was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender in relation to a fatal stabbing that occurred in Rochdale. The incident took place around 2.30am on January 1, 2025, on Sussex Street.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) were dispatched following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, emergency services discovered a 38-year-old man with a severe knife wound on nearby Essex Street.

Unfortunately, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. A male suspect, in his 30s, was identified and subsequently arrested, but he was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries and is currently still hospitalized. He has not yet been questioned by the police.

Following these events, a woman in her 30s was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender but has since been released on bail.

Detectives have categorized the incident as 'an isolated and targeted attack' and are not currently seeking any additional suspects. Ongoing inquiries are underway, and anyone with information is encouraged to come forward.

Detective Chief Superintendent Neil Jones of GMP stated, “We are keen to speak to anyone who can assist with our investigation, as we know even the smallest detail can help us piece together the moments that led to this tragic loss of life. We urge anyone with video doorbell recordings, dashcam footage, CCTV, or mobile phone videos from the area to come forward.”

Information can be reported to GMP by calling 101 with the incident number 715 from January 1, 2025. Alternatively, individuals can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.