Family pays tribute after ‘suspicious death’ of 75-year-old grandad

The family of a 75-year-old grandad – whose death is being possibly suspicious by police – have paid tribute to him.

Geoffrey Ives was pronounced dead at a house on Hardfield Street in Heywood on Sunday 29 January.

Police had been called to reports of concern for welfare of a man, and pronounced Geoffrey dead at the scene.

An investigation has been launched and enquiries have since established that his death could be suspicious.

In a tribute to Geoffrey, his family said: "He has been there and supported us throughout our whole lives, always putting us first.

"He was a stubborn man, but there wasn't a bad bone in his body.

"Everyone that knew him loved him.

"He was the best dad, grandad, uncle and friend to us all."

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector David Moores said: "Our enquiries have now brought us to a point in the investigation where we are able to appeal to members of the public to ask for more information.

“Our thoughts are with Geoffrey’s family at this difficult time and our specially trained officers will continue to support to them.

“Following the launch of a murder investigation, a team of detectives have been working tirelessly to piece together information and evidence.

“Our enquiries have now brought us to a point in the investigation where we are able to appeal to members of the public to ask for more information.

“Officers from the Rochdale district will be providing a visible presence in the coming days for reassurance as we understand that this incident may cause some shock and concern.

“We would like to reassure residents in the area that we will continue to investigate what we believe to be an isolated incident, with no wider risk to the public and would like to thank the public for their cooperation and patience so far.

“Whilst officers are gathering evidence from the scene and the surrounding area, anyone with information, CCTV, is asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident 2696 of 29/1/2023. Always dial 999 in an emergency.”

A dedicated Major Incident Public Portal has been opened to receive information, and you can directly submit images and mobile phone, dash-cam, or doorbell footage here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S52-PO1

Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.