Cousin of boxer Fury stabbed to death

In a social media post on Sunday, the heavyweight boxing champion said his cousin Rico Burton was “stabbed in the neck” and called on the Government to “bring higher sentencing for knife crime”.

Fury said those who carried knives were “idiots”.

Police said emergency services received multiple calls about a disturbance in Goose Green, Altrincham, Greater Manchester, at around 3am yesterday.

Officers arrived at the scene to find a 17-year-old man and a 31-year-old man with stab wounds receiving first aid from members of the public before police and paramedics took over.

Both men were taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary where the 31-year-old man died of his injuries while the 17-year-old remains in a serious but non-life threatening condition.

Greater Manchester Police Superintendent Ben Ewart later confirmed that the 31-year-old was Mr Burton.

Speaking to reporters, he said: “Can I take this opportunity first to pass on my sincere condolences to Rico’s family and friends, and also praise the members of the public who stepped in and provided first aid.”

Mr Ewart said the force has launched a murder investigation and specialist officers are supporting both families.

He said two men aged 21 and 20 have been arrested – one on suspicion of murder and the other on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and murder.

“This is without doubt a senseless attack and both victims should have returned home this morning after enjoying a night out with friends,” Mr Ewart said.

“Goose Green is a popular nightspot and would have been busy at the time.

“We have increased police controls in the area and knife crime remains a priority for Greater Manchester Police, the devastating effects of which have been demonstrated this morning.”

Mr Ewart said the stabbing took place “spontaneously” and was “unplanned”.

Asked what police had been told about there being an argument, he said officers are continuing a “very live” investigation and it is a factor they are looking into.

On what police could say about the man who was killed, Mr Ewart said: “At this stage, I don’t know any further information. We are in contact with his family.”

He added: “Everything suggests, at this stage, he was out enjoying an evening with friends and this has taken place spontaneously and unplanned.

“So it’s a very, very tragic ending to what should have been a good night out with friends.”

Asked about Tyson Fury’s post, he said: “I am aware of the media circulation. I can’t confirm whether there is a connection with the family.”

Fury wrote on Instagram: “My cousin was murdered last night, stabbed in the neck this is becoming ridiculous … idiots carry knives. This needs to stop.”

He added: “Asap, UK government needs to bring higher sentencing for knife crime, it’s a pandemic & you don’t know how bad it is until 1 of your own!

“Life is very precious and it can be taken away very quick enjoy every moment.”