Murder investigation after woman found dead at home in Lostock

Neighbours today expressed their shock and upset at the investigation taking place at in the quiet residential street in Lostock.

Police were called to Alexandra Road just before 10pm yesterday after being alerted by the ambulance service.

Picture by Phil Taylor

Two men, aged 73 and 72 have been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of the woman, believed to be in her forties was discovered.

A post-mortem examination is due to take place today.

This morning police were knocking on houses as part of the investigation.

One resident said: "The police knocked on my door this morning and asked if I had seen anything or knew of them. All I know is that a man lived there.

"I saw police on the street last night but didn't know what was going on."

Another said: "The police came round but I don't know who lives there, it is awful to hear that someone has died.

"We don't know what happened apart from someone has died.

"There was a lot of police cars and paramedics last night."

A neighbour said: "I knew the man who lived at the house, and as far as I knew he was the only person who lived there.

"The forensics have been there all night. Nobody knows what has happened other than a woman has died

"I only know what I have read, we are all guessing at the moment. Police have been knocking on doors and left numbers to contact them if we have any information."

A number of police cars were on the scene into later afternoon, with forensic officers examining the house.

At one point a dog was brought out. There was also a police in the back alley behind the house.

Officers left the scene at about 3pm, with one police car left outside the house.

Picture by Phil Taylor

Detective Superintendent Howard Millington, of GMP’s Serious Crime division, said: “Firstly, I would like to pay respect to the woman who has tragically lost her life. My thoughts are with her family and friends at what must be an unimaginably devastating time.

“Whilst we have made two arrests, it is important to stress that we are keeping an open mind about the circumstances of the woman’s death and will work tirelessly to keep her family updated of any developments.

“We have a dedicated team of officers who are working hard to piece together exactly what has happened in order to provide those closest to the woman, with much-deserved answers.

“A scene remains in place as our team continue with investigation work and local residents can expect to see a higher police presence. I’d urge anyone with any issues or concerns to please speak to these officers, who are there to provide reassurance.

“If anyone has any information – no matter how insignificant you think it may be – please get in touch at the very earliest opportunity, as even the smallest detail could assist our enquiries and progress what is currently being treated as a murder investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident number 3221 of 06/03/20. Reports can also be made to Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.