Wigan: First picture of a man found dead with “dangerous substances on his body”

A heartbroken family has paid tribute to a “devoted” father who was found on a street with “potentially dangerous” substances on his body.

Liam Smith, 38, was spotted on a residential street in Shevington, a suburb of Wigan, Greater Manchester, around 7pm on Thursday.

In a brief statement released by police, his family said: “Liam was kindhearted, funny, the life and soul of the party.

“He was the most devoted father, beloved son, brother, grandson and uncle. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.’

His family have asked for privacy as they mourn.

No further information about the substances has been released, but the Home Office has conducted a post-mortem.

Detective Superintendent Alan Clitherow said it was a “challenging set of circumstances” during a news conference on Friday.

“We’re now taking out exactly what happened,” he said.

“We don’t know what the substance is. We’ve done some initial research, we know the risk is low. As I mentioned, anyone who comes into direct contact with the body should seek medical advice if they feel unwell, but there is no greater risk to others.”

The body was found on Kilburn Avenue on uneven ground between neighboring houses leading to a dirt track and open fields.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact officials.

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