Body found in search for missing 17-year-old Catherine; man, 55, arrested on suspicion of murder

A body has been found in the search for Catherine, a 17-year-old girl from Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, police said Sunday. A 55-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with her disappearance, authorities added. Enquiries surrounding how she went missing led officers to an address on Whalley Close at around 9am on Sunday. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, the girl died at the scene. Greater Manchester Police said the body is believed to be Catherine, though formal identification has not yet taken place. Her next of kin have been informed and police are supporting the family. The man arrested remains in custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Anna Barker said the force is keeping an open mind and pursuing several lines of enquiry. She expressed condolences to the family and said officers would remain on scene as the investigation continues. Barker urged anyone who was in the Whalley Close area on Saturday or the early hours of Sunday to come forward, adding that every piece of information, no matter how small, helps investigators build a clearer picture.

Police said the investigation will continue at the Whalley Close address, with a scene in place while officers carry out inquiries. Authorities are appealing for information from anyone who was in the area on Saturday or the early hours of Sunday to come forward. People with CCTV, mobile phone footage, or Ring doorbell footage are asked to contact police on 0161 856 9307, quoting log number 802 of 21/09/2025, or submit information online via gmp.police.uk. Information can also be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The suspect, a man aged 55, remains in police custody on suspicion of murder. GMP said there is no additional information available for release at this time. This is a breaking news story, and authorities said more updates will follow as inquiries continue.