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‘Devastated’ family pay tribute to young dad shot dead in Openshaw

'It is difficult to comprehend that Zikel has died under such tragic circumstances and the shock is profound.'

Daisy Jackson - 27th March 2023

The victim at the centre of a murder probe in Greater Manchester has been named and pictured, as his family issue a heartbreaking tribute.

Zikel Bobmanuel, 32, was pronounced dead at the scene of an incident on Welland Street, Openshaw at around 2pm on Saturday 25 March. It’s believed he died as a result of gunshot wounds.

Zikel was a father, the youngest of his children just six weeks old.

His family said in a tribute that he was their ‘pride and joy’ and that he had been working hard to provide for his family.

Describing the devoted father, they said: “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.

“He held the heart of his girlfriend in his hand and was a hands on father to his beloved children, the youngest just 6 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 [Saturday] 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.

“Whilst officers are gathering evidence from the scene and the surrounding area, anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident 1771 25/3/2023. Always dial 999 in an emergency.

“Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A 33-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident in Openshaw.

Detectives are appealing for any information, especially relating to a second suspect who is believed to have fled the scene in a vehicle shortly afterwards and any CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage should be sent over to police as this may be crucial to the investigation

Zikel’s family ask for privacy at this time.

Featured image: GMP