Murder investigation launched after man dies in Manchester motorbike crash

Carl Dawson, 43, died shortly after the collision earlier this week. Credit: Facebook/Catherine Dawson

A murder investigation has been launched after a man died in a motorbike crash in Manchester.

Carl Dawson, 43, from Moston, died shortly after the collision on the night of September 7.

Officers were called to Hillier Street in Moston at around 11.45pm following reports of a crash involving one vehicle. Mr Dawson had been riding a Lexmoto XTR motorcycle at the time.

However, police now believe Mr Dawson was being chased by another vehicle at the time of the incident and are treating the case as a murder investigation.

Detective Chief Inspector Alicia Smith, from Greater Manchester Police, said: “Lines of enquiry have now led us to believe this man was being chased by a white vehicle at the time.

“Our thoughts remain with the man’s family who are understandably distraught and coming to terms with what has happened.

“We’re continuing to appeal for information – especially anyone who may have seen the vehicle which was behind the motorcycle at the time.

“Anyone who may have any information or has any dashcam footage is asked to contact us – even the smallest information may prove vital.”

According to the Manchester Evening News, Mr Dawson was a father-of-four with a large family who said he "never failed to make you smile".

His daughter Keely Burns, 20, a carer from Blackley told the paper: "He was always there for us. We were like best friends and he was one in a million.

"I am so shocked. I went to identify his body and I don't think it has quite hit me yet," she added.

Sister Catherine Dawson paid tribute to her brother in a Facebook post, writing that he was gone "far too soon" and told him to "sleep tight".

Sharing a series of images of her brother, Ms Dawson wrote: "R.I.. Paradise brother love you millions until we meet again.

"I know you wouldn’t want us to be sad I know you’ll be smiling down in heaven I know you’ll be looking after mum doing her head right in lol, sleep tight brother.

"Loved forever and always... Really am going to miss you deeply xxx".

Anyone with information is asked to report it online at www.gmp.police.uk or by calling 0161 856 0055. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.