Man, 19, charged with murder of Luke O’Connor in Fallowfield

We have today charged a teenager with the murder of Manchester student Luke O’Connor (19).

Shiloh George Pottinger (19), of Fallowfield, has been remanded in custody and will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Monday (31 October) also accused of possession of a bladed article.

He was arrested on Friday (28 October) night and interviewed by detectives from our Major Incident Team investigating Luke’s death on Wilmslow Road last week.

Our specially trained officers remain in contact with Luke’s family providing updates throughout the investigation.

Superintendent Helen Critchley, of our City of Manchester South district, said: “Our detectives have been in liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service who have authorised us this afternoon to charge a suspect with Luke’s murder, which is a significant moment in this case for all concerned.

“Luke and his family remain at the front-and-centre of our investigation and my thoughts are with them this evening at the end of what will have been the most devastating week of their lives.

“We’ve also felt the shock and hurt in our large student community in Fallowfield, and we are continuing to listen and address the concerns that people have spoken to us about this week.

“I’d like to remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and nothing should be posted online that could jeopardise the defendant’s right to a free trial, therefore it’s really important people refrain from speculation or commentary on social media throughout the hearing of the case.

“We’re grateful for all the information the public have given us so far and anyone who is yet to speak to us who may have details that could help our investigation should call 0161 856 6777 quoting incident 240 of 26/10/2022.”