Man’s body found inside burning van
IT IS BELIEVED THE VICTIM WAS HOMELESS AND WAS LIVING IN THE VEHICLE
A MAN found dead in the back of a burning van in Stockport was homeless and may have been living in the vehicle, it is understood.
The body was discovered in the vehicle in the car park of the Asda Superstore in Reddish on Saturday morning.
The M.E.N. understands the death is not being treated as suspicious, but Greater Manchester Police said an investigation is ongoing and the circumstances surrounding the death are not yet known.
But the Wellspring, a homeless charity based in the town, posted on its Facebook page on Sunday: ‘RIP to the homeless person who tragically died in a fire while sleeping rough in the back of a vehicle in Stockport yesterday.’
A number of people have left comments on The Wellspring page, expressing their sadness and condolences.
Liz Abbott Lewis said: ‘Read about this so tragic should not be happening R.I.P. Such sad news. Condolences to anyone who knew him.’
Tracey Murray said: ‘Oh no! This should not be happening in this day and age. Bless his heart.’
Helen Madden said: ‘Oh, how terribly sad. RIP. This should never happen.’
Victoria Harnley added: ‘Our government are sadly in denial regarding helping our homeless and expect charities to pick up the pieces.’
Firefighters were called to reports of smoke coming from a Fiat Scudo panel van in the Asda car park just before 9am on Saturday.
After putting out the fire the crew then discovered a body in the back of the vehicle.
The car park, off Manchester Road, was sealed off for most of the day while firefighters and police forensics investigated.
The body was removed from the van, and the van was then taken from the scene so further investigations could be carried out.
The store remained open throughout the day, and members of staff stayed on the car park directing drivers as to where to park while police secured the scene. A spokesperson said they would continue to support the police with their investigation.