Farm owner dies after late-night burglary
A MAN was found dead at a farm after reports of a burglary.
Police said he suffered what is believed to have been a medical episode.
He was pronounced dead despite the best efforts of paramedics at the scene in Heywood, police said.
Collop Gate Farm, off Manchester Road in Heywood, was sealed off on Thursday as an investigation continued.
Crime scene investigators were pictured at the site.
Greater Manchester Police said officers were called to reports of a burglary at units of Manchester Road at around 11.15pm on Wednesday night.
“Officers attended and found a man - one of the owners - had subsequently suffered what is believed to have been a medical episode,” the force said in a statement.
“Despite the best efforts of paramedics, he sadly died a short time later.”
Neighbours at the scene said the man, who is understood to live nearby, had been alerted and went to the farm to investigate.
GMP said the burglars fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. No arrests have been made.
Detective Inspector Julie Maxwell, of GMP’s Rochdale district, said there was evidence to suggest the burglary was ‘targeted.’
She said: “I would like to start by saying that the investigation team’s thoughts are with the man’s loved ones and specialist officers are supporting them.
“We believe the man suffered a medical episode but enquiries are ongoing and a postmortem investigation will confirm the cause of his death.
“Our investigation is in the early stages but we are working hard to establish the full circumstances surrounding both the death of the man and the reported burglary.
“I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to anyone with information, regardless of the perceived significance, to contact us, or Crimestoppers anonymously - as soon as possible.
“We understand that members of the public may be concerned by this incident.
“I would like to offer some reassurance by saying that, although we are keeping an open mind, there is evidence to suggest the burglary was targeted.
“Regardless, extra officers are in the area and will remain for the foreseeable future.
“Anyone who is concerned can speak with them.”
One neighbour said: “We saw flashing lights and the police and this morning, we got up to find police were everywhere.
“This is a real shock to us.”
Another neighbour said: “The man had gone to the farm to investigate after he was alerted to a possible break-in.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8441 quoting 3023 of 28/10/20 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.