A tragic incident has shaken the community of Bury as 31-year-old Stephen Ball, residing on Pear Avenue, Bury, was formally charged with the murder of Susanne Galvin, aged 55. He has been remanded into police custody and is set to appear at Manchester Magistrates on Thursday, 21 September 2023.
In a further development, a 41-year-old woman was released from police custody on police bail on the night of Tuesday, 19 September, while the investigation into this chilling crime continues.
Susanne Galvin’s family, devastated by their loss, issued a heartfelt tribute to her. They stated, “Susanne was greatly loved by her parents and family and will be sadly missed. As a family, we respectfully ask to be allowed privacy during this difficult time.”
Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Mark Davis expressed his condolences, saying, “The thoughts of the investigation team remain with the family at this incredibly difficult time. They are being supported by specialist officers, and we have also deployed police officers to the area to provide support and reassurance to the local community, who were understandably shocked and saddened by this incident.”
DCI Davis also appealed to the public for any information related to Susanne’s murder. He emphasised the crucial time frame, stating, “Lines of enquiry have led us to believe that the person or persons responsible were on foot on Saturday, 16th September, between the hours of 18.00 and 21.30. They may have been in the area of Pear Avenue, Cherry Avenue, Walnut Avenue, Thompson Drive, Topping Fold Road, and Hewart Drive in Bury.”
He urged anyone with even the smallest piece of information to come forward, stating, “If you have any information, no matter how small, I would urge you to share it with the police as it may be invaluable to this investigation.”
Members of the public who wish to assist in the investigation can contact the Major Incident Team at 0161 856 6777 or submit information through the dedicated portal at https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP23N13-PO1. Additionally, Greater Manchester Police can be reached at 101, quoting log number 3625 of 16th September 2023, or through the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.