Double murder inquiry launched after two stabbed

Emergency services were called to Great Southern Street at about 05:00 GMT

A double murder inquiry has been launched in Manchester after two men were stabbed, police said.

They died "despite the best efforts" of emergency services who had been called to Great Southern Street in the Moss Side area of the city at about 05:00 GMT, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

A force spokesman said a 23-year-old man, believed to know the victims, was arrested on suspicion of murder, medically assessed and detained under the Mental Health Act.

Detectives, who have not yet released details about the stabbed men, said they were not looking for anyone else in connection with the killings.

Forensics officers are at the scene of the double stabbing

Speaking at a press conference in Manchester on Sunday afternoon, Ch Supt David Meeney said: "This morning two lives have been lost in our community and our thoughts go to their families, who have lost a loved one today."

"We understand the shockwaves that this devastating news will have caused in the local community and further afield across Greater Manchester," he added.

Ch Supt Meeney said visible patrols were in the area "to reassure the community".

'A complete shock'

Within a taped-off police cordon, a green bike could be seen lying in the road next to a parked car.

Several officers were patrolling the scene.

One woman living on the street, who did not want to be named, told BBC News: "It's very, very scary.

"I worry about my kids because the place is not safe."

Another resident said: "I've never seen anything like this before round here - it's a complete shock."

Police said a man had been arrested on suspicion of murder

GMP said: "Despite the best efforts of first responders, two men [who] were treated at the scene for their injuries... have both sadly been pronounced dead.

"We thank the public for their co-operation and patience as there is a cordon in place on Great Southern Street and into the surrounding area.

"We are asking the public to continue avoiding the area as there is a large emergency service presence while we establish the full circumstances of the incident."

Greater Manchester deputy mayor Kate Green said she offered her "deepest sympathies" to the families of the victims and thanked emergency services staff for their response.

"I want to reassure the community, who will inevitably be shocked and concerned by the attack this morning, that GMP have increased visibility and are working hard with partners to ensure residents in Greater Manchester are safe now and in the future," she added.

Additional reporting by PA Media.