By Terence Dooley
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that a teenager is being questioned by detectives in relation to Tuesday’s sickening assault on former British lightweight champion Anthony Crolla. The 17-year-old is in custody after being picked up earlier today on suspicion of assault, burglary and possessing drugs with the intent to supply. GMP also arrested a 46-year-old woman for possessing drugs with intent to supply.
Crolla, 29-4-2 (11), was injured after chasing two would-be-burglars that he had discovered leaving his neighbour's house. The 28-year-old grabbed one of them, but was hit with a concrete slab by the other man, leaving him with a fractured skull and a broken foot. The contender was due to challenge Richar Abril for the WBA lightweight belt on January 23. Thankfully, he is on the mend but his career is hanging in the balance due to the extent of his injuries.
GMP released an updated statement earlier today, it read: ‘Police have made an arrest after a man received a fractured skull in Chadderton. At around 5.30pm on Tuesday 16 December 2014, two men climbed into the back garden of a home on Halsey Close and broke in. They searched the home, which was empty at the time, and left empty handed. As they climbed out of back garden, they were spotted by a next door neighbour. The 28-year-old man shouted for them to stop but when they ran, he gave chase.
‘As they ran from Thorley Close, onto Butterworth Lane and Crescent Road, the man managed to grab one of them. There was a struggle before the offender hit the man over the head with a heavy object, causing him to fall to the floor. Both men then left.
‘Police have now arrested a 17-year-old boy on suspicion of burglary, assault and possession with intent to supply drugs. He remains in police custody for questioning. A 46-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs. The victim is recovering well in hospital.
‘Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 9035 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.’
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