Man, 27, stabbed in Leigh tragically dies as murder investigation is launched

A man stabbed in a horror attack in Leigh on Tuesday night (December 3) has now died, with a murder investigation underway.

Named by his family as Jack O'Brien, 27, he was stabbed near Siddow Common, in Leigh, at around 6.50pm. Emergency services including an air ambulance were scrambled to the scene, with multiple cordons put in place.

Jack was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries from the scene. On Wednesday morning, his sister Courtney Balmer told the M.E.N there was 'fifty fifty' chance of his survival, as she said: "They are telling us he might not make it, it's a fifty-fifty chance, it's horrible."

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Jack later died in hospital on Wednesday, police have confirmed. Two men arrested on suspicion of attempted murder have now been re-arrested on suspicion of murder and are in custody.

The residential street remained taped off overnight, as forensics officers scoured the scene for evidence. One house was covered for crime scene investigation.

One of Jack's neighbours was the first to rush to his aid, his sister said. Another neighbour described Jack as 'much loved in the community' as police enquiries continued at the scene on Wednesday.

Detective Inspector Matthew Hamer said: “Our condolences are with the victim’s family and friends who have sadly lost a loved one today. We have launched a murder investigation, and we have arrested three people, who remain in custody for questioning.

“With what we know so far, we do not believe that there is a threat to the wider community in Leigh. However, we understand that an incident of this nature will concern residents.

“You will see an increased visibility of officers in the area while we manage the