First pictures of murdered man found stabbed in alleyway as family say they will ‘miss him forever’
THE heartbroken family of murdered Matthew McKenzie - who was found stabbed in the chest in an alleyway - said he would "make friends with everyone he met".
Matthew's body was found by a passer-by in an alleyway to the rear of Promenade Street, Heywood, Greater Manchester, at around 11.25pm on Thursday.
His mother Kathryn Jones paid tribute to the 33-year-old, who lived in nearby Rochdale.
“Matthew was a much loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and uncle," she said.
“Everyone that met him got on with him, and he would make friends with everyone he met.
“When he would come and see me I would say to him, I love you, be careful, behave, and he would give me a big sloppy kiss.
“We all loved him very much and will miss him forever.”
Greater Manchester Police have launched a murder probe after a post-mortem confirmed Matthew died from a single stab wound to the chest.
A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody for questioning.
Detective Chief Inspector Amber Waywell said: “This was a tragic way for Matthew’s life to come to an end.
“His death has left his family understandably distraught and our condolences of course go to them during this tremendously difficult time.
“We currently have one person in custody, but the investigation continues at pace and we still want people to come forward with any information they believe may assist our enquiries.”
An ambulance was called to Promenade Street at around 11.25pm on Thursday but Matthew was pronounced dead at the scene.
His partner Vickie Knox also spoke about what a caring man he was.
She wrote on Facebook: “I know we weren’t together very long but I’ve known you for 15 years and you always made sure me and my kids were ok.
“Think that’s what made me love you that much more.
"You took on me and my crazy kids which you deserve a medal for.
“Seeing the look on Logan’s face when I had to tell him you weren’t coming back was the most heartbreaking thing.
“I love you Matty Mckenzie always have and always will. R.I.P sleep tight babe.”
Other tributes left at the scene said: “Going to miss you everyday.
“Always be there in my heart.
“Love you Matty from your baby girl Adele.”
A bunch of flowers with a photograph of Mr McKenzie, who lived in Rochdale, taped to the side said: “R.I.P. Matty. Love you. Square Bridey and families.”.
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Another card read: “R.I.P. Little buddy. Miss you already. Til we meet again. Ryan.”.
A police spokesman said yesterday: “A passer-by discovered the body of a man in an alleyway to the rear of Promenade Street, Heywood.
“An ambulance was immediately called to the scene but the man – thought to be in his early 30s - was pronounced dead by paramedics.
“Officers attended and are treating the death as suspicious.”
Two police vans remained at the scene yesterday morning and officers were seen walking around the backs of terraced houses.
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 2211/120117 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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