A dad died in a "shocking murder" from what police believe to be a fatal gunshot wound and acid attack.
Police were called at around 7pm on Thursday, November 24 officers to reports of a dead body on Kilburn Drive, Shevington, Wigan. Emergency services attended and confirmed these reports.
Officers have since identified the victim as 38-year-old Liam Smith from Kilburn Drive. Initial information indicates Liam was subject to a fatal gunshot wound and an acid attack.
READ MORE: Wallasey Tunnel closes after 'unexplained' death of man
Detectives said they are working tirelessly to establish the exact details of the alleged murder, which "took place in unique and shocking circumstances on a quiet residential street". Following examination and tests, the hazardous substances are believed to not pose any further harm, threat or risk to the public in the surrounding area and have been contained.
Police are reminding people that if they have had direct contact with the body at the time they should still speak to officers or seek medical advice immediately. A Home Office post-mortem has taken place and his family are being supported by specially trained officers.
A scene is currently still in place at the location with no disruption to the wider area. Enquiries are also ongoing into what is a murder investigation following suspicious circumstances.
Detective Chief Inspector Gina Brennand from GMP’s Major Incident Team, who is leading this investigation said: “This is a shocking murder of a much-loved family man. I have a team of detectives working around the clock and I urge anyone who has seen anything unusual or out of the ordinary near to the victim’s home during the day and early evening of Thursday, November 24 to contact the Major Incident Room.
"This is the first fatal shooting in the Manchester area for over two years and we are determined to recover the weapon and find Liam’s killer.”
Specialist officers are taking precautions surrounding this incident and said for people to not be alarmed when they are seen in the area wearing protective clothing, as mentioned before this is purely precautionary as per the standard procedure at the scene.
Police said it is important that the public do not approach or contact anyone they suspect of being involved in this offence. Anyone with information should instead use the contact details below if they witness something or have witnessed anything unusual, including between the times of 8am and 7pm on Thursday, November 24 on Kilburn Drive.
Any details should be passed via the LiveChat function on gmp.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting incident number 910 of 25/11/2022. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Information can also be submitted through the major incident public portal here.
READ NEXT:
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
Updates as Wallasey Tunnel closed in both directions due to 'police incident'
'Horrendous' decision paramedics face every day
Find the coins hidden on the ECHO website for the chance to win a £200 voucher
Are the Christmas markets overpriced?
Universal Credit claimants can expect extra cash within days
