A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the death of a 17-year-old girl who had recently been reported missing.
The teenager, who police believe was named Catherine but has yet to be formally identified, was found at an address on Whalley Close in Ashton-under-Lyne at about 09:00 BST on Sunday, said Greater Manchester Police (GMP).
Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she died at the scene, added a force spokesperson. Her cause of death remains unclear and detectives are said to be keeping an open mind.
News of her death came a day after she was reported as missing. A 55-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder remains in police custody, GMP said.
Police said Catherine’s next of kin had been informed and were being supported.
Det Ch Insp Anna Barker said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the young person who has tragically lost their life, who we sadly believe was missing Catherine.
“Although we have a man in custody, our investigation team is keeping an open mind and are following several lines of inquiry.
“We are trying to get all the answers we can for the family of this young person who is at the forefront of the investigation team’s mind.
“We are appealing for anyone who may have been in the area of Whalley Close on Saturday and [in the] early hours of Sunday morning to come forward and assist us in our inquiries.”
She added: “Every piece of information, no matter how small it might seem, helps us build a clearer picture.”
