Tribute to ‘loving father’
THE family of a dad who was found dead after a fire at a flat in Salford have paid an emotional tribute to him.
The body of 47-year-old Thomas Jones was discovered after firefighters extinguished a blaze on Berry Street, Clifton, last week.
A post-mortem has since revealed he died of ‘multiple stab wounds’ with a murder enquiry being launched.
His relatives have paid tribute to Thomas, known to them as Tom, saying he was a loving father and keen music enthusiast.
In a statement they said: “Tom was a vibrant man who lived his life the way he wanted and certainly made an impression.
“He always had a passion for music and was quite an adept drummer.
“Tom will be sadly missed and would have wanted good times to be remembered by all who knew him.
“Now reunited with his mother and father, he will always be remembered by his children, sisters and nieces and nephews who he leaves behind. Rest in peace.”
The alarm was first raised at around 12:35pm in the early hours of last Wednesday, March 22, after a fire broke out at the flat in Richmond Court.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus spent around half-an-hour bringing it under control and extinguishing the flames.
It was during a search of the property that Mr Jones’ body was discovered.
The apartment block was sealed off for several hours as forensic officers gathered evidence and neighbours spoke of their shock and sadness at the tragedy.
As previously reported in the M.E.N., Mr Jones was arrested two days before his death, on Monday, March 20.
He was arrested for two unknown offences and released without charge.
Due to the police’s prior involvement with the victim, GMP referred the case to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).
However, after an assessment by the watchdog, it has been decided that a local investigation should be carried out by GMP’s own Professional Standards Branch.
A 37 year-old woman was arrested last week on suspicion of murder in connection with Mr Jones’ death.
However, detectives say their investigation is ongoing and they have appealed for anyone who may be able to help them to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.