Beswick murder: Grandfather killed by car thieves after he was 'knocked down ... trends now
The heartbroken family of a 'devoted' grandfather killed while trying to stop car thieves from stealing his Land Rover have today paid tribute to him.
Christopher Hanley died after reportedly clinging to the bonnet of his prized motor in a desperate attempt to stop it from being snatched.
The 57-year-old was found 'unresponsive' in Olympic Street, Beswick, Manchester, shortly before 11am on Saturday morning. Despite the efforts of members of the public and emergency services at the scene, he was pronounced dead.
Detectives have since arrested a 35-year-old man on suspicion of murder, and a 43-year-old man was on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in custody.
Police named Mr Hanley as the victim this afternoon - as his grieving family released a statement and photo of the beaming grandfather while cradling a baby in his arms.
Christopher Hanley was killed after reportedly clinging to the bonnet of his Land Rover in a desperate attempt to stop his motor from being snatched by car thieves on Saturday
His family have today paid tribute to the 'devoted' grandfather and family man (pictured is the scene of the tragedy)
'As a family we are heartbroken and shocked at the sudden loss of Chris. A loved and devoted family man who adored his grandchildren, tragically and unfairly, taken way too soon,' Mr Hanley's loved ones said in a statement.
'At this time, we as a family ask for privacy to show respect for Chris and his memory.'
In a statement this afternoon, Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith from Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) Major Incident Team said: 'This has come as devastating news to Chris's loved ones, and I would like to echo their request for privacy at this time.
'We have already made two arrests in connection with Chris's death, but we continue to work diligently to ensure we apprehend all those responsible.
'I would urge anyone with information to come forward so that we can get justice for Chris and his family.'
Police said initial enquiries suggested Mr Hanley had been hit by a black Land Rover, believed to be his own car, as it was being stolen.
It's understood the Land Rover was stolen from an address in nearby Holly Street and a blue forensics tent was erected at its junction with Olympic Street, where it's thought the Mr Hanley was struck.
CCTV footage - seen by MailOnline - appears to catch the Land Rover as it's driven away along Olympic Street at about 10.46am.
Police are still hunting for the missing vehicle and are appealing for help in finding it.
The 57-year-old was found unresponsive in the street in Beswick, Manchester at 11am on Saturday
Residents in Olympic Street in Beswick, around half a mile east from Manchester city centre, said they were first alerted by a car revving its engine before
