Police make two arrests after launching Rochdale murder investigation
A 52-year-old man died early this morning
A murder investigation has been launched after a man died in Rochdale.
Officers were called to reports of an assault on South Parade at around 1.30am this morning (Saturday 26th September 2026), where they found a 52-year-old man unconscious.
He was taken to hospital for treatment but died despite the efforts of emergency services.
Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident and remain in custody for questioning, according to Greater Manchester Police.
Investigation underway
Detectives from the force's Major Incident Team are now leading the investigation.
They are appealing for anyone who witnessed the assault, has information about what happened, or has CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage to come forward.
The victim's family are being supported by specially trained officers, the force said.
What police have said
Detective Chief Inspector Claire Brennan, from the Major Incident Team, said: "This is a heart-breaking incident in which a man has tragically lost his life.
"Our thoughts are first and foremost with his family and loved ones who are being supported by specially trained officers at this incredibly difficult time.
"We understand an incident of this nature will also cause concern within the local community.
"I want to reassure people that we have a dedicated team of detectives working to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and understand exactly what happened in the moments leading up to it.
"Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident and our enquiries remain ongoing.
"We are now appealing directly to anyone who was in the South Parade area in the early hours of this morning and may have witnessed the incident, or seen anything suspicious before or afterwards, to please speak to us.
"We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area as it could provide vital information to assist our investigation.
"If you have any information, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please come forward and speak to our officers on 101 or LiveChat quoting log 250 of 26/09/2026."
Detective Chief Inspector Claire Brennan said: "Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
How to give information
Anyone with information can call police on 101 or use LiveChat, quoting log 250 of 26/09/2026.
Information can also be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Details can also be submitted through the force's Major Incident Portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP26S57-PO1.