Warehouse find prompts murder probe

A murder investigation has been launched after a homeless man's body was found inside a derelict warehouse.

Police were called to the warehouse in Partington Street, Oldham, shortly after 6.45am yesterday where the body of 38-year-old Matthew Alexander Barrett was discovered.

A Home Office post-mortem examination was carried out, which revealed Mr Barrett died from multiple injuries.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team are now investigating and inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Mr Barrett was named by police who said he was believed to have been homeless and living in the Oldham area at the time of death.

Detective Chief Inspector Pete Jackson, from GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "The small disused warehouse where Matthew was found is believed to be somewhere he had been sleeping.

"We are asking for people that have any knowledge about what has happened to come forward and speak to us to help with our inquiries.

"It is not believed that Matthew had any relatives, but we are also appealing for anyone that may have known him to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to call the Major Incident Team on 0161 856 3691 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

PA