Ben Wright died after being ‘kicked and punched [in] the head’
12:12, 04 Apr 2026Updated 12:17, 04 Apr 2026

Ben Wright died following the attack in Salford(Image: Facebook)
A murder investigation has been launched after a man died following an attack outside a pub in Salford.
The victim, named as Ben Wright, was ‘punched and kicked [in] the head’ in an ‘altercation involving several men’ outside Dessie’s Place on Liverpool Road in Irlam at around 2.40am last Sunday (March 29).
He was rushed to hospital from the scene in a critical condition. Sadly, Mr Wright was pronounced dead two days later. Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation into the serious assault.
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Three men, all aged in their 20s, were arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and were later bailed pending further enquiries. In an update issued on Satuday (April 4), a spokesperson for GMP confirmed a murder investigation has now been launched.
No further details on the investigation have been provided. Following the attack, a cordon was put in place around Dessie’s Place while forensic officers combled the scene for evidence.

A cordon was put in place around Dessie’s Place after the attack(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Tributes flooded in online for Mr Wright, with friends describing him as a ‘beautiful human being’ who will ‘never be forgotten’ and a ‘kind-hearted soul’. It is understood surgery was carried out for Ben’s organs to be donated to save the lives of others before he passed away.
Dessie’s Place posted a heartfelt statement following his death, which read: “It’s with heavy hearts we share the sad news that our dear friend Ben has passed away. Ben wasn’t just someone who worked with us he was part of our family.
“He loved the pub, the people in it, and all the regulars who walked through those doors. He was one of us… not just a regular, but one of the best and everybody new and loved him.
“His smile, his laugh, and his presence brought so much life into the place, and it simply won’t be the same without him. We will miss him more than words can ever say, and he will never ever be forgotten. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family at this incredibly difficult time and we’re sending love right to you.”
Any information on the incident can be reported to police using this public portal HERE.