Health alert in Wigan after dead body covered in ‘hazardous substances’ found close to school

A DEAD body believed to be covered in hazardous substances has been found near a school - sparking an urgent medical warning.

Police raced to a street in Wigan, Manchester, last night, following the mystery death.

Officers have today said they believe the body was covered in hazardous substances, and are urging anybody who came in contact with it to seek medical advice.

Police said they are still working to identify the body, which was found a short walk from a school.

A cordon has been in place since last night, and a forensic tent could still be seen on the side of the road at midday.

Greater Manchester Police said: ";At around 7pm yesterday evening officers were called to reports of a deceased body on Kilburn Drive, Shevington, Wigan.

"Emergency services attended and sadly confirmed these reports.

"​A scene is currently in place at the location and contained on Kilburn Drive with no disruption to the wider area.

​"Police are working to identify the body and enquiries are ongoing, we are keen to speak to anyone who has any information about this incident."

The continued: "Police believe there are potentially hazardous substances on the body and anyone who has had direct contact with the body should speak to officers or seek medical advice immediately. 

"Officers are out speaking to residents and are highly visible in the area.

"The scene is contained, and it is believed there is no wider risk to the surrounding area. 

"We will keep the public updated when we have more information.

"Any information should be passed to us via LiveChat or by calling 101 quoting incident number 000910 of 25/11/2022.";