The man at the centre of a murder investigation after a fatal shooting has been named by family as Zikel Bobmanuel, as they paid tribute to his mother's 'pride and joy'.
A cordon has been in place on Sandywell Street in Openshaw, east Manchester, since around 2pm on Saturday (March 25), when emergency services were scrambled. First responders sadly pronounced a 32-year-old man dead at the scene after suffering gunshot wounds.
His family have paid tribute to the father, whose youngest child is just six weeks old, saying he 'had the heart of his girlfriend in his hand' they are 'devastated beyond belief'.
READ MORE: Murder investigation launched after man 'shot dead' in broad daylight
“Zikel was many things to many people, he was a good friend, a hard-working colleague, part of a large extended family, but ultimately, he was his mother’s son, her pride and joy," they said.
“He held the heart of his girlfriend in his hand and was a hands on father to his beloved children, the youngest just six weeks old. Zikel was happy and fulfilled, he was working hard to provide for his family and was never more content than when he was spending time with them.
“It is difficult to comprehend that Zikel has died under such tragic circumstances and the shock is profound. We are devastated beyond belief and find it hard to comprehend life without him.
"We would like to thank everybody for their kind words and the comfort their support has given us and respectfully ask for some privacy at this difficult time.”
Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst, said: "Our thoughts are with Zikel’s loved ones at this heart-breaking time. As our investigation continues, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.
"Since yesterday afternoon, we continue to build an in-depth timeline of events leading up to Zikel’s death and we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry. Although we currently have one man in custody, work is ongoing to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
"I would like to thank members of the public that have already shared information with us. Any information, regardless of how small, may be the key to receiving answers for Zikel’s family."
Tributes have also poured in for the 32-year-old on social media. "So sad, RIP Zeeks, was a top guy," one friend commented. Another said: "Rest in Peace Zikel, such sad news. Happy I got to catch a little vibe with you one last time. Love always."
The incident is Greater Manchester's first fatal shooting this year.
In the streets surrounding the scene, residents told the M.E.N. they are scared to leave their houses as forensic investigators continue to comb the scene.
Specialist search, tactical aid, and forensic officers continued their work on Sandywell Street today. Residents told the M.E.N. they were 'scared' and 'shocked' by the violent crime which has shaken what they called a 'tight-knit community'.
"Everyone here knows each other, we've all been helping each other," one woman said. "It's very sad. It is scary when this happens on your own doorstep. It's not like the olden days when you could leave your doors open.
"This street is usually full of children playing. Today, there is nobody around."
On the other side of the street, another resident said she didn't see or hear anything until the police arrived yesterday afternoon. "It's horrible," she said. "It is scary. I mean you can't get any closer, can you?"
Sandywell Street became a hive of activity once more after specialist officers arrived on the scene at around 1pm on Sunday afternoon, as investigations continued. Residents stood in doorways and watched as officers in white suits combed the street, taking pictures and speaking to neighbours.
A little further down the road, another woman told the M.E.N. the incident left her feeling unsafe to leave her own home. "It makes you not want to go outside," she added. "But you have to, don't you."
In a statement yesterday, GMP said one man, 33, had been arrested after what they believe to be a 'targeted attack'. They continue to hunt one suspect who is believed to have fled the scene in a vehicle.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 101 quoting log number 1771 25/3/2023. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity - Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
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