Family and officers appeal for further information following death of man in Manchester

Billy Riddell pictured in the days before his death

The family of a man who died at an address in Manchester in November have joined officers in making an appeal for information as enquiries continue into his death, while new CCTV images have additionally been released.

At around 11.35pm on Sunday 10 November 2024, officers attended an address in Astbury Avenue, Manchester, following a call regarding a concern for welfare.

Upon arrival, William Riddell, also known as Billy, aged 59, was sadly found deceased at the property.

A 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

Now, officers working on the investigation are keen for anyone in the community with information about Billy, and who may have seen something suspicious in the area, to please get in touch.

This includes anything in the Astbury Avenue area in the hours preceding Billy’s death, and any suspicious activity or incidents in the days or weeks leading up to it, including anyone who spoke to him or heard anything.

We have additionally released CCTV images of Billy the day before he died, as well as in the days before his death, as we continue to work to investigate his last movements and actions.

Billy’s step-daughter, Sarah, said: “I want to be Billy’s voice and get answers for him. Billy was a nice and lovely man and all the community knew who he was. He was well-liked and we gave him a good send-off at his funeral. 

“I would just ask anyone who knew him or has any information to come forward and tell police. Even if you think it’s a little or small thing – please come forward. We just want get to the bottom of what has happened.”

Detective Inspector Alex Wilkinson, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “The family of Billy deserve answers following his death and we are working hard to ensure they get exactly that.

“We have closely supported Sarah and the wider family over the last month, and we will continue to provide assistance wherever we can as they face their first Christmas without him.

“While a suspect has been bailed, we are still working flat-out to understand more about Billy’s life, the people he was close to, and events leading up to his death just over a month ago.

“As this work continues, I would urge anyone in the local area, and who may have information, to please come forward. This includes anyone who knew Billy, saw him in the local community, or has any information on the people he associated with. You may have spoken to him or heard something, and your help could allow us to provide Billy's family with the answers they deserve.

“In particular, anyone from in and around the Astbury Avenue and surrounding areas, please contact us with any information you may have.

“Even if you consider something to be small – your help could greatly benefit our investigation.”

You can contact police via 101 or our Live Chat function at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 3227 of 10/11/24.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or via their website.