Family's emotional tribute to mother's 'pride and joy' Zikel
Date published: 27 March 2023
Zikel Bobmanuel. Image courtesy of GMP
The family of a man who died in nearby Openshaw have paid an emotional tribute to him.
Police were called to an incident on Welland Street in Openshaw at around 2pm on Saturday (March 25).
A 32-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders and at this stage, it is believed he died as a result of gunshot wounds.
He has been named as 32-year-old Zikel Bobmanuel.
In a tribute to Zikel, his family have said: “Zikel was many things to many people, he was a good friend, a hard-working colleague, part of a large extended family, but ultimately, he was his mother’s son, her pride and joy.
“He held the heart of his girlfriend in his hand and was a hands on father to his beloved children, the youngest just 6 weeks old.
“Zikel was happy and fulfilled, he was working hard to provide for his family and was never more content than when he was spending time with them.
“It is difficult to comprehend that Zikel has died under such tragic circumstances and the shock is profound.
“We are devastated beyond belief and find it hard to comprehend life without him.
"We would like to thank everybody for their kind words and the comfort their support has given us and respectfully ask for some privacy at this difficult time.”
Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst said: "Our thoughts are with Zikel’s loved ones at this heart-breaking time.
"As our investigation continues, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.
"Since Saturday afternoon, we continue to build an in-depth timeline of events leading up to Zikel’s death and we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry.
"Although we currently have one man in custody, work is ongoing to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.
"I would like to thank members of the public that have already shared information with us.
"Any information, regardless of how small, may be the key to receiving answers for Zikel’s family.
“Whilst officers are gathering evidence from the scene and the surrounding area, anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident 1771 25/3/2023."
Always dial 999 in an emergency.
Details can be also passed anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.
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