Man bailed over the death of 17-year-old girl in Tameside
Catherine Blackhurst died after being found on Sunday
A man arrested in connection with the death of a 17-year-old girl in Tameside has been bailed pending further enquiries, Greater Manchester Police have confirmed.
The teenager, formally identified as Catherine Blackhurst, was reported missing on Saturday 20th September. Despite efforts from emergency services, she was sadly found dead the following morning at a property on Whalley Close in Ashton-under-Lyne.
Catherine’s family has been informed and are receiving support from specially trained officers.
A Home Office Post Mortem has been carried out, but the cause of Catherine’s death remains unascertained at this stage.
A 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the investigation. He has now been released on bail while police continue to pursue “several lines of enquiry”.
Detective Chief Inspector Anna Barker, who is leading the investigation, said:
“Our investigation is progressing and we are working incredibly hard to support Catherine’s friends and family during this tragic time.
“We know today would have been Catherine’s 18th birthday, and getting the answers for Catherine’s loved ones is at the forefront of the investigation team’s minds.
“The arrested man has been bailed pending further investigation as we progress all available lines of enquiry, such as forensics, to ascertain Catherine’s cause of death.
“We are still appealing for anyone who may have been in the area of Whalley Close on the Saturday and early hours of Sunday morning to come forward and assist us in our enquiries.
“Every piece of information, no matter how small it might seem, helps us build a clearer picture in this investigation. Anyone who has any information, CCTV, mobile phone or Ring doorbell footage is urged to contact police on 0161 856 9307 quoting the log number 802 of 21/09/2025 or online via gmp.police.uk.
“Information can also be shared with us anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
The police have stressed that they are keeping an open mind as the investigation continues.