Linzi Ashton Murder: Police Release CCTV Footage of Suspect Michael Cope

Police have released CCTV footage of the man they want to question in connection with the murder of a mother-of-two in Salford.

The body of Linzi Ashton, 25, was found at her home in Winton, Salford, Greater Manchester on Saturday 29 June. A post-mortem examination revealed that she had suffered multiple injuries to the head and neck.

Police want to question her ex-boyfriend, Michael Cope, 28. They have released CCTV footage to help in the hunt. They have warned the public that they regard Cope as "dangerous and unstable" and "a risk to the community".

The footage, taken the night before Ashton was found dead at her home by relatives, shows Cope buying snacks and drinks from Best One on Liverpool Road in Eccles.

Chief Supt Kevin Mulligan said: "Our efforts to trace Michael Cope are ongoing and we have released this footage in the hope that people may recognise the man filmed, whom we believe to be Michael.

"We believe that this sighting is from before Linzi's murder, and we also believe that at some point on Friday night he was with Lindsey.

"At this moment Cope knew that he was wanted by police, which is why we think he is wearing a hooded top. It is also possible that Cope will have changed this clothes since this sighting.

"I also want to reiterate that Cope is a dangerous man and should not be approached. Anyone who sees him should call 999 immediately."

Crimestoppers has announced a £5,000 reward for anyone who has information leading to the arrest and conviction of Cope. Police have also warned people not to harbour the suspect.

Mulligan added: "You might think you a doing a mate a favour, but do you really want to spend time behind bars for this man? We will also be working with our partner agencies to look at evicting anyone who is using their property to offer this man safety."

Anyone with information that could aid the investigation should call police on 0161 856 5092 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.