A murder investigation is underway and arrests have been made after a 56-year-old man sadly died following a report of assault at an address on Bryn Street in Ince, Wigan.

We were called by our colleagues at the North West Ambulance Service on Friday 31 July 2026 at around 10.35pm, stating that there was an ongoing disturbance where a man had blood coming from his face.

The victim refused medical care saying he did not remember how he got his injuries and would take himself to the hospital in the morning.

Around midday on Saturday 1 August 2026, we were alerted by Salford Royal Hospital that the victim was in life-threatening condition.

Sadly, on Sunday 2 August 2026, the victim in this incident passed away as a result of his injuries. He has been named by his family as Brian Cunliffe.

Two men – one in his 50s and another in his 30s – have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody for questioning,  investigations are being run by our Major Incident Team (MIT) with enquiries ongoing.

Detective Inspector Hulston, of GMP’s Major Incident Team (MIT), said: “I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time,  our Family Liaison Officers are supporting the family of the deceased, and we are ensuring they are fully updated throughout.

“We are continuing to establish the full facts of this incident, but we believe both suspects and the victim were known to each other. I would like to reassure the community in Wigan that this is an isolated incident.

“We have two men in custody who are currently being questioned by my officers, we will provide further updates when we know more.”