A MURDER inquiry is underway after an 18-year-old who was shot in Bury last night died.

Bury Times:

Detectives say at around 9.40pm last night they were called to reports of a firearm being discharged on Chesham Road.

Officers attended and established that an 18-year-old man had been shot.

He has been named locally as Cole Kershaw, a keen young boxer who attended the Brick City Boxing Club in Bury.

In a tribute, the club said: "Last night we lost one of our own, we are truly lost for words and we cannot comprehend why or how it has happened.

"You weren’t just King Cole Kershaw you were part of the BrickCity family, always in with a cheeky smile and always gave 1,000% effort and you were a true inspiration to watch.

"Your Dad sat and watched every session and was unbelievably proud of you every time you trained.

"Part of our BrickCity family has gone but you will never be forgotten. Cole Jdg we know you will be boxing up in the stars so make sure you save a round for all of us. Sending all our love to your family at this awful time. RIP King Cole Kershaw you will be missed so so much."

Police say the victim was taken to hospital where he died a short time later. His next of kin were informed. No arrests have yet been made.

Tributes have already been left at the scene to the teenager and a huge police cordon remains in place around Chesham Road and neighbouring streets.

Bury Times:

Chief Supt Stuart Ellison said: “This incident has resulted in a young man very sadly losing his life.

"I would like to start by saying that our thoughts are with his loved ones at this heart-breaking time and specially trained officers are doing everything they can to support them through this.

“Although we are in the early stages of our investigation, officers are carrying out extensive enquiries and following a number of lines of enquiry. We are committed to identifying the person responsible for this murder and ensuring that they face justice.

Bury Times:

“So far, we have established that a number of people were in the area at the time.

"We believe these people have vital information which will assist us and I urge them to pass that on to Greater Manchester Police or Crimestoppers, anonymously, immediately. I also encourage anyone else with information to contact us.

Bury Times:

“Finally, I would like to offer some reassurance by saying that we do not currently believe that this was a random attack. However, extra officers will be patrolling the surrounding area in the days to come so anyone with concerns can speak to them directly.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log 3452 of August 12 or the independent charity – Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.