Specialist detectives leading the hunt to establish how Julius Matera lost his life are appealing for those with information to come forward and help bring his loved ones some closure.
Speaking at a press conference today (Friday 19 July) Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Smith from our Major Incident Team said:
“Julius Matera was 43-years-old when he died.
“His body was found near a property on Great Cheetham Street West in Salford in December 2023. We believe that Julius lost his life on the evening of Friday the 13th or the early hours of Saturday the 14th of October, that was just a few days before the half term break of October last year.
“We believe there are people in the community who may know what happened to Julius and why.
“We know that sometimes for many different reasons, some people feel that it is wrong to talk to the police. But we have to do our job and we have a duty to find answers for Julius’ family.
“Greater Manchester Police have a team who are still working to find out what happened to Julius, and we will keep going until we have answers. We are very determined. If you know anything about what happened to Julius or why, then please contact us.
“Were you on Great Cheetham Street West in Salford, or the wider area, on Friday the 13th or Saturday the 14th of October in 2023? Do you have any information about what happened to Julius?
“Any information you have may help provide some answers for a grieving family. No matter how small the information might seem, it could be pivotal to our investigation.”
Paying tribute to Julius, his family said:
“Julius was remarkably friendly, considerate, respectful, funny, and adventurous.
“He was always ready to help when he could.
“He had such an adventurous spirit and a curious mind that made him want to explore and discover things in his own special way with a keen ambition in current affairs and commentary.
“Julius was an active local community member who enjoyed the company of others and was never a lonely person.
“We all miss his contagious laugh.
“He had a way of making people smile even in the toughest of times and is remembered for that smile and a chuckle that captured his joyful spirit.
“If there is anyone in Manchester or anywhere else who knows anything about his last hours, please contact the police and try to help them affording him justice and let his soul find peace.”
Information can be shared by calling 0161 856 3635, quoting log number 218 of 07/12/2023.
Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Information can also be uploaded to GMP’s Major Incident Public Portal – https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP23F27-PO1
