'His mother’s son, her pride and joy' tribute to dad shot dead in East Manchester

The family of a dad who police believe was shot dead in a targeted attack in Manchester have paid tribute to him.

Zikel Bobmanuel, 32, died at the scene on Welland Street in Openshaw, at around 2pm on Saturday 25 March.

Police believe the dad, whose youngest was just six-weeks-old, was deliberately targeted.

In a tribute, his family paid tribute to Zikel, calling him his mother's "pride and joy".

They said: "Zikel was many things to many people, he was a good friend, a hard-working colleague, part of a large extended family, but ultimately, he was his mother’s son, her pride and joy.

"He held the heart of his girlfriend in his hand and was a hands on father to his beloved children, the youngest just six -weeks-old.

"Zikel was happy and fulfilled, he was working hard to provide for his family and was never more content than when he was spending time with them.

"It is difficult to comprehend that Zikel has died under such tragic circumstances and the shock is profound.

"We are devastated beyond belief and find it hard to comprehend life without him.

"We would like to thank everybody for their kind words and the comfort their support has given us and respectfully ask for some privacy at this difficult time."

A 33-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, while Greater Manchester Police say officers are looking for a second man who is thought to have escaped in a vehicle.

Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst, said: "Our thoughts are with Zikel’s loved ones at this heart-breaking time.

"As our investigation continues, specially trained colleagues are supporting them.

"Since yesterday afternoon, we continue to build an in-depth timeline of events leading up to Zikel’s death and we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry.

"Although we currently have one man in custody, work is ongoing to ensure that those involved are brought to justice.

"I would like to thank members of the public that have already shared information with us. Any information, regardless of how small, may be the key to receiving answers for Zikel’s family.

“Whilst officers are gathering evidence from the scene and the surrounding area, anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage is asked to contact police via 101 quoting incident 1771 25/3/2023. Always dial 999 in an emergency."

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