UPDATED: Gunned down in Ashton - third man arrested

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Detectives have arrested a third man in connection with a fatal shooting in Ashton.

At around 4.50pm yesterday (Wednesday), police were called to reports that a man had been shot on Birch Street.

A man in his 30s was taken to hospital where he sadly died from his injuries.

A man in his 20s later presented himself at hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg.

He is currently being treated for his injuries and remains in a stable condition.

Following two warrants executed by firearms officers in Ashton yesterday, two men, aged 29 and 32, were arrested on suspicion of murder.

A third man, aged 28, was later also arrested on suspicion of murder.

The men all remain in custody for questioning.

There are currently a number of properties being searched in Ashton, Clayton and Openshaw as part of this investigation and enquires are ongoing.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Clitherow, of GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “We have a team of dedicated detectives, firearms officers and crime scene investigators that have worked tirelessly through the night gathering key information.

“We now have three men in custody all arrested on suspicion of murder but our investigation is very much ongoing and there are several property searches taking place across Greater Manchester.

“We are supporting the man’s family as they process this horrendous incident and will continue to work around the clock to establish exactly what happened.

"Our thoughts remain with them at this very sad time.

“I am continuing to urge anyone with any piece of information, no matter how big or small, to please get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 1592 of 13/06/2018, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.