Police not treating Manchester Gay Village shooting as hate crime
A man was found injured in Manchester city centre early this morning
Police have confirmed they're not treating a shooting in Manchester's Gay Village as a hate crime.
Six men were arrested after a man was found injured in Richmond Street in the city centre at around 5am this morning (Saturday 24th January 2026).
The victim - who's aged in his 20s - is in a stable condition in hospital. He suffered a leg injury which is not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing.
Superintendent Stephen Wiggins from Greater Manchester Police's city centre division said:
“Since this incident came into us in the early hours of this morning, our officers have been working relentlessly to understand what the motive is behind this discharge is.
“After exploring many lines of enquiries, I can confirm that this is not a hate crime of any nature, and I think it is important to share that update due to the locality of the incident.
“Officers from the city centre will be providing constant and visible reassurance in the area over the coming days, and if you have any concerns, please speak to them as they are there to help.”
Carl Austin-Behan Vice Chair of the Village license Business Association and chair of GMP Independent Advisory Group - City Centre said:
"I would like to reassure Greater Manchester’s LGBTQ+ Community that based on all the information that we have received, this was not a targeted attack on Manchester Gay Village or our community.
“With the help of GMP carrying out extra patrols and the LGBT Foundation Village Angels supported by all the venues management and door staff, Manchester Gay Village is a safe and welcoming space for everybody.”
Police are still appealing for witnesses or any information about this incident.
Anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage that could assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 4259 or 101, quoting log 600 of 24/01/2026.