Police name suspected murder victim – and seek vital witness

POLICE at Warrington today named a man who died at the weekend following an incident which officers believe could be murder.
He was 21-year-old Declan Bunting, from Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington, who was found shortly before 3am on Saturday with serious injuries.
Paramedics attended the scene and Declan was taken to Warrington Hospital where he died a short time later.
Today Declan’s family have issued a photograph of him.  They are currently being supported by specially trained officers.
A 31-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder is still in custody and is helping police with their enquiries.
But police are also trying to trace a key witness who may be able to assist with their enquiries.
At around 2.51am a man approached a police officer on Wilderspool Causeway to raise his concerns about the behaviour of a group of people nearby.
The man then walked away while the officer went to investigate.  He is described as 6 feet tall, of mixed race and proportionate build.
Detective Inspector Adam Waller, of Cheshire Police’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Our investigation remains ongoing and we are working incredibly hard to establish the exact circumstances of what has happened.
“As part of our enquiries I am really keen to trace a key witness who may hold vital information which could help us with our investigation.
“I want to make it clear that this man is not a suspect and could have vital information, which could assist with our enquiries. I would encourage him to come forward and speak to us.”
Enquiries are ongoing and officers remain in the local area to provide reassurance.
DI Waller added: “I would like to reassure people that, at this stage, this is believed to be an isolated incident.
“Local officers continue to provide reassurance to the community and anyone with any issues or concerns is urged to speak to them.
“I would urge anyone who may have witnessed what happened, saw anything suspicious or unusual, or has any information which could assist officers with their enquiries, to contact us on 101.”
Information can also be passed on anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.