Police update on Royton murder investigation - Oldham

Police have confirmed that a 49-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murdering a 48-year-old in Royton has been released on bail while investigations continue. The man was found dead at a property on Higginshaw Lane on Sunday morning, with emergency services called at 10:23am following concerns for his welfare. Despite the arrest, detectives say they're still conducting extensive enquiries to establish exactly what happened.

Detective Inspector Rachel Smith from GMP's Major Incident Team has reassured residents that police believe this to be an isolated incident with no wider threat to the public. She acknowledged the concern such incidents cause locally but emphasised that officers are keeping an open mind as the investigation develops. The force has maintained an increased police presence in the area while they work to piece together the full circumstances.

The case has understandably unsettled the Royton community, with neighbours reporting seeing multiple police vehicles and officers at the scene throughout Sunday. Local residents have been urged to come forward with any information that might assist the investigation, with police providing specific log numbers for reporting. The investigation remains active, with detectives continuing to gather evidence and speak to potential witnesses.

For now, the man who was arrested remains on bail pending further enquiries, meaning he's been released from custody but must return at a later date. This is standard procedure in complex investigations where police need more time to examine evidence before deciding on formal charges. The community will be watching closely for updates as detectives work to provide answers about what led to the tragic death on Higginshaw Lane.