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Gone too soon
Reporter: KAREN DOHERTY
Date online: 16 March 2010
TRIBUTES have poured in following the death of a man attacked in a street brawl
Andy Molloy died in hospital after being involved in a fight outside an Oldham pub in the early hours of Monday morning.
A murder probe has been launched after the 25 year old, from Hathershaw, was found with serious face and head injuries outside the Old Mess House in Yorkshire Street.
Police were called to the town centre at 2.50am following reports of a brawl.
Mr Molloy was taken to Hope Hospital, Salford, but died hours later.
A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He is being held for questioning.
Part of Yorkshire Street was taped off until around 3pm yesterday. The crime scene was obscured with a tent.
Heartfelt floral tributes have since been placed at the scene.
One from mum, dad and brothers Carl and Bradley reads: “Andrew, a much loved son. Will be missed forever and always.”
Another said: “It’s gonna be hard without you. Always in my heart and thoughts. From Nicola, Aaron, Callum, Aleisha and Paige.”
Hundreds of tributes have also been posted on the social networking website Facebook.
They describe Andy as a funny guy who made everyone laugh and pictures show him drinking with friends.
One friend wrote: “RIP Andy. Too young and full of life to be gone so young . . . my thoughts are with your family.”
Another added: “This stuff only happens to the best. Heaven must need a soldier because they’ve taken one from us.”
A farewell party is being planned at the Mess House on Saturday and a memorial has been set up on the website Gone Too Soon.
It says: “One top lad Andy, you will never be forgotten lad always in our hearts and memories.”
Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Jen Williams said: “This man was the victim of a serious assault.
“There were people outside the pub at that time and they were waiting at the taxi rank.
“They may not have realised quite how serious this attack was, so I’m appealing for them to contact us.
“I’m certain they’ll have vital information for us. At the moment, his family are understandably distraught by what has happened. We are doing all we can to find whoever carried out this attack.
“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed it to come forward.”
Anyone with information should call police on 0161-856 8751 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.
Comments
Terrible terrible sad news - my thoughts are with this lads freinds and families. The battle for Yorkshire street has well and truley been fought and lost. That's down to the inept policing and mindless thugs that our borough has produced. Oldham is responsibel for both. A horribly sad end to a young life. Lets hope that ALL those responsible are held to account properly.
Another tragic incident on the streets of Oldham. RIP.
So So tragic. what is happening in Oldham? my thoughts go out to the family. It happened on Mothers Day. whoever done this i hope they get caught soon. too many crimes are commited in oldham.
RIP. the sale of alcohol should be banned. people do not know how to drink responsibly and it causes heartache like this. it also costs the taxpayer a lot of money.
I'm quite sure that this will not be a murder. Murder requires that the perpetrator intended to kill the victim, and from what I've read I don't think there's any evidence that he did.
Take note that just one punch is enough to end someones life, you might not mean to, but one lad will have to live with the consequences of what he's done for the rest of his life.
Condolences to the family, it's such a waste of a young life
R.I.P ANDREW MOLLOY BORN 31/12/1985 (AGED 24) TAKEN FROM US 15/03/2010 ! Everyones thoughts are with Jacki & Ste and his brother Carl, sister Nicola & family. Such a tragic loss, Andy loved being an uncle and was a true Hathershaw soldier. Long live Andy Molloy ! Miss you always xxxx
Waste of a life, all for the sake of being on the streets at such a ridiculous hour and getting in a fight.
It's not murder, it's more likely manslaughter if there is enough evidence to bring a prosecution.
WakeyWakeyOldham, out of curiosity, what is a Hathershaw soldier?
R.I.P MOLLOY definatly took way too soon mate was only talking you saturday out side mess house lets hope the justice system does as it says and does justice for you mate you didnt deserve be took from us so young mate sleep tight thoughts with your family and friends
What's this about 'manslaughter not murder'? Unless those saying that know something that the police may not I reckon they should leave their comments to themselves. The one that mentions 'only one punch' may, or may not, have some information. If not - why bring that up? In fact, why should someone hit someone in the first place? Suffer the consequences if you are prepared to hit someone. Condolences to the victim's family.
Yet another example of how vicious life in Oldham has become. Why anyone roams the streets of the town centre late at night is a mystery to me as there are so many mindless thuga around that it must alwatys be a risky thing to do. Police, publicans, parents & OMBC ought to give real thought as to how our town can be safer for decent people. Dare I suggest fewer pubs/clubs & restricions on opening hours?
Have Your Say
RIP Andy. Such a waste of a young life. I hope the person (if you can call them that)serves a life sentence in prison and not given the soft option and be walking the streets in 5 years. Thoughs are with the family during this difficult and traumatic time. He's gone but never forgotten.
By newyorker @ 16/03/2010 12:36:32