Murder investigation launched after mother-of-three dies in Heywood pub - 19-year-old arrested

A mother-of-three has died after a man threw a glass bottle into a crowded pub in Heywood.

A murder investigation has been launched.

Shortly before 2am on Saturday 27 December 2008, police were called to the Queen Anne Hotel on Market Street, following a report a woman had suffered a serious injury to her neck.

Emma O'Kane, 27, was taken to Fairfield Hospital, but was pronounced dead.

A post mortem examination will take place later.

Emma lived in Heywood with her partner and three children, aged six, two and one.

Detective Superintendent Peter Jackson, who is leading the investigation, said: "A man tried to get into the pub and was refused entry.

"He became involved in an altercation with the doormen and threw a bottle into the pub.

"A shard of glass then caused a serious injury to this woman who was nothing to do with the argument and was out enjoying a drink at the bar.

"This tragic incident has left this woman's family devastated.

"We are doing all we can to try and find who is responsible for this, but I'm appealing for anyone with any information to get in touch with us."

Anyone with any information should call police on 0161 856 8745 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

-------------------

UPDATE

A 19-year-old man has been arrested.