Two men jailed for street stabbing murder

Jordan Downs (left) and Paul Simmons were both sentenced to more than 19 years in jail

Two men have been jailed for the stabbing murder of a man after a row escalated.

Michael McCann, 35, was attacked on Bradford Street in Bolton, Greater Manchester, on 25 July 2024 and died in hospital two days later.

Jordan Downs and Paul Simmons, who lived in the town, were found guilty of murder at Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court.

Downs, 32, was also found guilty of perverting the course of justice, and was jailed for life with a minimum term of 20 years while Simmons, 49, was handed a 19-year minimum sentence at the same court.

The pair claimed they believed Mr McCann was intending to steal drugs from them.

A confrontation escalated before he was stabbed from behind by Downs.

Michael McCann was attacked on 25 July 2024 and died in hospital two days later

On arrest, Downs and Simmons also claimed Mr McCann had a knife on him and they were acting in self-defence, police said.

An investigation found the pair suspected they were going to have their drugs stolen so armed themselves before the meeting.

The victim's brother Jack said in a statement read to the court: "His death has left a massive hole in our family and in our hearts.

"My daughter is now nearly one and Mickey has missed out on seeing her grow, her first steps, her first giggle, her first crawl and her first words which I would have made sure she knew to say Uncle Mickey."

'Harrowing trial'

Det Chief Insp Nicola McCulloch, of Greater Manchester Police said: "Our thoughts remain with Michael's family at this time.

"The trial process was particularly harrowing for them, yet they always remained dignified and respectful of the court process.

"We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure the safety and security of our communities and will continue to work tirelessly to uphold justice."