The ex-boyfriend of a 25-year-old mother who was "brutally murdered" in her home is being hunted by police.
Detectives in Salford said Michael Cope, 28, was their main suspect in
the death of Linzi Ashton and have warned locals against "harbouring"
him.Bar worker Ms Ashton had clearly suffered face and head injuries when her body was found on Saturday evening by relatives, police said.
It is understood her daughters Destiny, seven, and Daisy, two, were not at home in Westbourne Road, Winton, at the time.
The couple had an "acrimonious" relationship, police said, and officers had been called to the address in the past. Because of this, the case has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.
Detective Chief Superintendent Darren Shenton said: "I have named Michael Cope as I believe he is responsible for Linzi's death.
"Linzi and Michael Cope have been in a relationship and that relationship has been acrimonious and the subject of reports to police.
"A young woman has been brutally murdered and our thoughts are with her family and friends at what is obviously a totally devastating time for them.
"I will take a dim view of anybody who provides assistance to Cope knowing that he is being sought by Greater Manchester Police."
A post-mortem examination on Ms Ashton's body was taking place on Sunday.
Neighbours have laid flowers close to the scene as police continue to look for clues.
Tributes were also left at the Duke of York pub in Eccles town centre, where Ms Ashton worked. One read: "Our Lovely Princess Linzi. Fallen too soon. Forever in our hearts and memories."
It is thought Ms Ashton was last seen alive by a friend in the Eccles area shortly before 2am on Saturday.
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