Victim named in murder probe

Jordan Higham has now been officially named by police after the fatal incident in the small hours of Monday morning in Nicol Mere Drive, Ashton. The coroner’s office also confirmed they have received a file on his death.

Two men aged 24 and 27 were arrested on suspicion of murder but have since been released under investigation.

The crime scene in Nicol Mere Drive, Ashton-in-Makerfield

Jordan was found unresponsive in the street after police rushed to reports that a man had been detained by members of the public, following a string of suspected thefts from vehicles.

He was taken to Wigan Infirmary but later died.

News of the death quickly flooded social media, with many tributes and messages of condolence being posted.

Mike Fairhurst wrote: “RIP Jordan Higham taken far too soon, you didn’t deserve to go the way you did. Sleep tight mate.”

A friend, Lauren Scott commented on the post, writing: “So so sad, got so many good memories with us all back in the day, was such a lovely clever lad, will never forget that laugh.”

Stephanie Fatima Bentham also replied: “It’s not sinking in yet, one of those people I thought would be around forever. Gone but not forgotten.”

Another user, Bobby Pilling posted: “No matter what anyone says, yeah it’s wrong what he’s been doing but no-one deserves that. RIP.”

The sentiment was echoed by Jamie Leput, who wrote: “Didn’t deserve that mate, regardless of what you were doing. Love you forever brother! RIP Higham! Absolutely speechless.”

Another comment read: “I’m speechless, no matter what’s been said you seriously didn’t need to go this way, love you loads matey sleep tight.”

Formal identification is yet to take place but officers believe the man is 25-year-old Jordan Higham and his family have been informed.

A 27-year-old man and a 24-year-old man were arrested on suspicion of murder and were released under investigation.

Det Chief Insp Clare Devlin from GMP’s Wigan borough said Jordan’s family were "understandably heartbroken" and that the force was doing everything it could to support them through their devastating time.

She said: “We originally arrested two men on suspicion of murder and they have since been released under investigation whilst our enquiries continue.

“A team of officers are working round the clock to get to the bottom of what happened and how Jordan sadly died.

“As part of our investigation we need as much information from the public as possible. If you haven’t spoken to us yet, or have something further to tell us, then please get in touch immediately.”

Police inquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference number 233 of 06/11/17 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.