The owners have issued a statement

14:18, 12 Jul 2026Updated 14:24, 12 Jul 2026

Forensics at the scene in Ashton(Image: Men Media)

The owners of a karaoke bar where a man was murdered in a ‘violent and shocking attack’ say they’ve taken the decision to voluntarily close the venue until further notice. A murder investigation was continuing on Sunday (July 12), with police confirming a 36 year-old man remained in custody for questioning.

He was arrested after the death of a man aged in his 30s at the Blues Cabaret and Karaoke Bar in Ashton-under-Lyne town centre, Tameisde. Believed to be a dad, he sadly died at the scene.

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The bar on Bow Street used to be known as Olivers Bar. In a post on Facebook, the bar said it acknowledged the incident ‘with great sadness’.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends and everyone affected by this heartbreaking event,” posted the owners.

The Blues Cabaret and Karaoke Bar in Ashton(Image: Men Media)

“Out of respect for those grieving, we ask that everyone avoids speculation or sharing unverified information on social media.

“We are fully cooperating with Greater Manchester Police and all relevant authorities as their investigation continues.

“As a mark of respect, and following discussions with the police, we have taken the decision to voluntarily close the venue until we have spoken with the appropriate authorities and departments. We would also like to thank the emergency services for their swift response, and our staff and security team for the professionalism they showed during an extremely difficult situation.

“As this is now the subject of an active police investigation, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.”

The deceased has not yet been formally identified, but the family of the man officers believe to be the victim have been informed.

The 36 year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder.

Forensics at the scene(Image: Men Media)

Senior detectives said the man was the victim of a ‘violent and shocking attack’. Detective Superintendent Ian McNabb, of GMP, said: “This is was a violent and shocking attack that tragically took the life of a young man.

“Our thoughts remain with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. We are working at pace to establish the full circumstances of this incident, and whilst no formal identification has taken place yet, the believed family of the victim has been informed and is being supported by our specialist officers.

“We currently have a man in our custody and a scene is still in place at this time. We would also like to reassure the community we believe this to be an isolated attack and poses no wider threat to the public.

“As we are still in the early stages of our investigation, we are appealing for anyone who may have information to please come forward and report. This can be anyone who may have witnessed the incident itself, or has any footage from the area that may support our enquiries.

“Anyone with information is urged to contact us on 0161 856 1995 quoting log 511 of 11/07/26. You can also provide information via our Major Incident Portal. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”