As reported last night by the Journal, emergency services were called to Irvine Avenue in Boothstown at around 8.15pm on Sunday (December 15).
Police and paramedics found a 44-year-old man from Tyldesley with serious injuries and rushed him to hospital in a critical condition.
He later died on Tuesday, December 18.
A 22-year-old man is currently in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder.
Police have yet to formally release the victim’s name, however, he has been identified by relatives and friends on social media as Thomas Gomm.
Relatives and friends have been posting emotional tributes online to Thomas, who was a talented mechanic with a passion for motorbikes.
Thomas’ father is Brian Gomm, a respected journalist on the sister paper of The Bolton News, the Leigh Journal for decades and a former rugby league player.
Many have described Thomas as a “legend” and a “true gentleman”.
‘A legend to many the best bike mechanic we all know’
One of the tributes from Paula Lawrence read: “This man right here is a legend to many the best bike mechanic we all know and was a true friend to all even if I could never understand any text he ever sent because he had his own language.
“Just know this Tom Gomm, we all loved you and you will forever be in our hearts we have raised a glass for you tonight pal and you will always be in our thoughts rest easy.”
‘A kind and genuine person with Tyldesley running through his veins’
Meanwhile, James Street Garage Tyldesley, where Thomas had worked, put out the following social post: “It’s with great sadness that I say farewell to my friend, Tom Gomm.
“I’ve known Tom from being a young kid and I had the privilege of working with Tom for six or seven years, and in that time, we not only worked together but also shared some amazing memories.
“To those who really knew him, Tom was a true gentleman, a kind and genuine person with Tyldesley running through his veins. When it comes to James Street Garage, he was a key part of its foundation and left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with.
“Tom was taken from us far too soon, and my heart goes out to his family during this incredibly difficult time.
“His memory will live on with all who had the honor of knowing him. Rest in peace, Gommy.”
Conor Wilcockson added: “Absolutely gutted to hear the news. Was an amazing bloke and a gentleman. Hope you’re at peace mate.”
Police statement
In a statement, issued last night, Detective Chief Inspector Mark Davis, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “Our deepest condolences are with the victim’s family who have sadly lost a loved one and we are continuing to support them at this time.
“We have a suspect in custody, and we would like to reassure people that we do not believe there is any wider threat to the community. You will see an increased visibility of officers in the area while we manage the scene and speak to the community as we carry out our investigations. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak to them.
“Our investigation is in the early stages, but we would like to speak to anyone who may know more about the incident. Were you in the area of Irvine Avenue, Leigh Road and Simpson Road on Sunday evening, or have information that could help us?
“Please get in touch with us with any information, CCTV, dashcam or phone footage. Any information will be handled with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality. Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log number 2876 of 15/12/2024.
“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”
