UPDATE: Shiloh Pottinger makes first court appearance after murder charge

A teenager charged with the murder of Manchester student Luke O’Connor is believed to be from Blackburn.

Shiloh George Pottinger, 19, is believed to be from Wilpshire and is thought to have attended St Bede's RC High School in Blackburn, but now lives in Fallowfield, Manchester.

He has been remanded into custody and will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on Monday (October 31). He is also accused of possession of a bladed article.

Pottinger was arrested on Friday night (October 28) and interviewed by detectives from Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) Major Incident Team investigating Luke’s death on Wilmslow Road last week.

Specially trained officers remain in contact with Luke’s family providing updates throughout the investigation.

Superintendent Helen Critchley, of GMP's City of Manchester South district, said: “Our detectives have been in liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service who have authorised us this afternoon to charge a suspect with Luke’s murder, which is a significant moment in this case for all concerned.

“Luke and his family remain at the front-and-centre of our investigation and my thoughts are with them this evening at the end of what will have been the most devastating week of their lives.

“We’ve also felt the shock and hurt in our large student community in Fallowfield, and we are continuing to listen and address the concerns that people have spoken to us about this week.

“I’d like to remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active, and nothing should be posted online that could jeopardise the defendant’s right to a free trial, therefore it’s really important people refrain from speculation or commentary on social media throughout the hearing of the case.

“We’re grateful for all the information the public have given us so far and anyone who is yet to speak to us who may have details that could help our investigation should call 0161 856 6777 quoting incident 240 of 26/10/2022.”