Detectives have launched a murder investigation after a man was found shot dead in woodland on the outskirts of Sheffield, leading to the arrest of two suspects in Manchester.

The discovery took place on Wednesday evening, 2 September, in Ecclesall Woods near Whirlowdale Road in South Yorkshire. A member of the public found the man's body and raised the alarm, prompting the ambulance service to alert South Yorkshire Police at 6:46 pm.

Following the recovery of the body, a forensic post-mortem examination was carried out. Detectives confirmed that the examination revealed the man died as a result of a gunshot wound, although formal identification has not yet taken place.

Initial enquiries moved swiftly across the Pennines, where officers arrested two suspects in Manchester on Thursday, 3 September, on suspicion of murder. The two individuals—a 36-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman—remained in police custody for questioning on Friday morning.

No further personal details regarding the suspects have been made public as the major inquiry progresses, with reporting from the Manchester Evening News confirming that the murder squad investigation remains active.

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Knowles, who is serving as the senior investigating officer on the case, described the killing as "a devastating incident which has led to a man losing his life," adding that thoughts remain with everyone who knew him.

DCI Knowles confirmed that the investigation is still in its early stages and stated that officers are continuing to work relentlessly to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the man's death. He made an appeal to the public, urging anyone with information that could assist detectives to contact the force immediately.

A police scene remains in place within Ecclesall Woods near Whirlowdale Road, where officers are continuing their enquiries alongside active patrols. South Yorkshire Police have encouraged local residents and passers-by to approach officers at the scene if they have any concerns or queries.

Moving forward, investigators will focus on formally identifying the victim while continuing their interviews with the two suspects held in Manchester. I'll be following this one.