Teen arrested after man dies following ‘altercation’ at traffic lights in Manchester

An 18-year-old has been arrested under suspicion of murder after a man died following an ‘altercation’ at a set of traffic lights near East Didsbury.

A 30-year-old man has sadly died in hospital, police have confirmed.

Emergency services were called to reports of a serious incident shortly before 1.40am on the A34 Kingsway, at the junction of Parrs Wood Lane to Queensway, on Tuesday, January 23rd.

The victim was taken to hospital but passed away due to his injuries a short while later. It is understood the two men were ‘travelling in separate vehicles along Kingsway’ before the attack.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said the attacker did not stop at the scene and left ‘in their vehicle’.

An 18-year-old man has now been arrested and is being questioned in custody. The victim’s family are currently being supported by specialist officers.

Detective Inspector Alex Wilkinson from GMP’s Major Incident Team said ‘the motive for this murder is not clear at this stage’ but officers believe it to be an isolated incident. 

He said: “We understand that an incident of such seriousness like this will cause shock to the local community and further afield, and I want to provide reassurance that an investigation has been launched to understand what has happened fully and identify all those responsible swiftly.

“Whilst the motive for this murder is not clear at this stage, we do believe the incident to be isolated.”

Because of the attack, a major road was closed in both directions for Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) officers to carry out investigations this morning, impacting on rush hour traffic. Some services experienced delays also.

Detective Inspector Wilkinson continued: “I appreciate the road closures in place are impactful on people’s travel, particularly for those going to and from work or school on this route, but would ask the public for their patience and understanding as the closures are required to allow for extensive enquiries to take place safely.

“You may notice an increased visible presence in the area, and officers are there to listen to any concerns and assist people making travel journeys, particularly those travelling by the Bee Network at the East Didsbury tram stop.”

He added: “I’d like to thank the public for their cooperation and assistance so far and our thoughts as a force are with the victim’s family who have been woken up to such tragic news this morning.

“They are being supported and have asked for privacy whilst they come to terms with what has happened.”

Police are urging anyone with information, or who believes they may have CCTV or dashcam footage, which could assist officers with their investigation is asked to call 101, quoting log 166 of 23/01/2024. 

Anyone with information can also submit it online via the dedicated Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) by clicking HERE.