Cold Case Break: Killer Caught 26 Years After Manchester Stabbing
On 25 February 1994, 21-year-old Jason Comerford was fatally stabbed in the neck during a night out on George Leigh Street near Great Ancoats Street, Manchester. Despite a huge investigation, the attacker vanished without a trace.
New DNA Tech Nails Killer After Decades
In 2015, the Cold Case Review Unit reopened the case. Using cutting-edge DNA analysis and fresh research, they identified Geoffrey Strike as the prime suspect. Greater Manchester Police’s Major Incident Support Unit took over, charging Strike with murder almost 26 years later in February 2020—close to the anniversary of Jason’s death.
Killer Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter on Mental Health Grounds
Strike, once from Manchester, admitted manslaughter due to diminished responsibility, following several mental health evaluations. At Manchester Crown Square, he was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order.
GMP Cold Case Boss Speaks Out
“Jason was brutally stabbed in what can only be described as a motiveless and random attack on a young man just enjoying a night out,” said Martin Bottomley, Head of GMP’s Cold Case Unit.
“Jason was a quiet, reserved lad with no known enemies. His family and friends were devastated by his loss. We never gave up hope and have kept them in our thoughts all this time. Sadly, Jason’s parents didn’t live to see justice served, but I hope this brings some peace to his loved ones after all these years.”
