Brutal attack could be 'Mistaken Identity'

Date published: 21/03/2005

A 40-year-old man has died after being found with serious head injuries in Heywood on Friday 18 March 2005. Paul Antony Cooper, of Walton Street, who required a walking stick to help him walk following a biking accident, was found in the bathroom of his flat with multiple injuries at approximately 11.45pm. He was taken to Fairfield General Hospital where he was subsequently pronounced dead.

Detectives believe that Mr Cooper was subjected to a brutal and prolonged attack in what they think may be a case of 'mistaken identity'. Officers think that Mr Cooper's attackers may have incorrectly believed that he had been involved in sex offences in the past.      

Paul's mother, Patricia Cooper, said: "I can see no reason for this to happen to Paul. He was an easy going, friendly man whose disability would have made it virtually impossible for him to defend himself. He was a quiet man who would have gone out of his way to help anyone in any way that he could.

"Every morning he came round to help me with my chores. I don't know what I'll do without him. Paul had many interests including a passion for cooking and a devotion to his dog, Blue, who never left his side. He will be missed terribly by all of his family and friends."

Two men from Rochdale, believed to be in their twenties, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact police in Rochdale on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.