Police have tragically confirmed that human remains found in Salford on Saturday (March 4) is Peter Baglin, the great-grandad who had been missing for almost 10 weeks.
Peter was reported missing after he didn't return home from a walk along the canal towpath in Boothstown on the evening of December 28. His belongings were found beside the canal the following day, sparking a major search operation.
A huge emergency services presence and police divers were called to the area on Saturday, where human remains were then discovered. GMP have now confirmed they belong Peter, as his wife Michelle paid a heartfelt tribute to her partner and best friend of 30 years.
READ MORE Police searching for missing Peter Baglin confirm human remains discovered
Paying tribute to her “Pete”, Peter’s wife, Michelle said: “Today is a day we wished would never come and our family is absolutely devastated at the news of Pete’s passing. When I think of Pete, I think of him as my best buddy and after being together almost 30 years, we complemented each other perfectly.
“He was a fantastic father, grandfather and great-grandfather; to our three children, our four grandchildren and our great-grand child. Pete was also a great brother to his two brothers. He was a much loved son and his mum and dad are being comforted at their home down south by Pete’s brother Paul and Paul’s wife, Katie.
“Over the last nine or so weeks, we have been endlessly searching for Pete. I would like to pass on a huge thanks from our family to friends and members of the community who have turned out time and time again trying to help us find him.
“We would also like to thank Greater Manchester Police for maintaining contact with me every day since Pete went missing; and also for the constant support they have given me.
“We don’t know how we are going to move on from this day, but whilst we try and come to terms with our loss, and grieve Pete’s passing, we would ask that our privacy is now respected.”
Police say it is not believed there are any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death and a file is being prepared for the coroner for the purpose of inquest proceedings.
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