Detectives investigating the stabbing to death of a suspected burglar have said they must determine whether it was "a criminal act" or "self-defence".Vincent Cooke, 39, was arrested on suspicion of murder after Raymond Jacob was stabbed to death at Mr Cooke's home in the wealthy Stockport suburb of Bramhall on Saturday night.Mr Cooke, bailed by police, was at home alone when two men reportedly forced their way into the house before Mr Jacob, from Wythenshawe, south Manchester, suffered fatal knife injuries.
Police said there will be "strong opinions" on the incident but their job was not to make "snap judgments" but to investigate thoroughly.This process will clearly take time because it is important we do not make snap decisions but investigate fully and without prejudice.
"This is clearly a distressing incident for all concerned - Raymond's family, the occupants of the house and the wider community in Bramhall.
"Due to the nature of the incident, we understand that people will have strong opinions on this subject and this remains a matter of national debate.
"However, I want to stress that my officers have to operate within the law and our primary aim is to establish exactly what happened that night.
Chief Superintendent Rebekah Sutcliffe of Greater Manchester Police said: "It is vital we establish the exact circumstances in which Raymond died and determine whether or not it was a criminal act or of self-defence.
Police said there will be "strong opinions" on the incident but their job was not to make "snap judgments" but to investigate thoroughly.This process will clearly take time because it is important we do not make snap decisions but investigate fully and without prejudice.
"This is clearly a distressing incident for all concerned - Raymond's family, the occupants of the house and the wider community in Bramhall.
"Due to the nature of the incident, we understand that people will have strong opinions on this subject and this remains a matter of national debate.
"However, I want to stress that my officers have to operate within the law and our primary aim is to establish exactly what happened that night.
Chief Superintendent Rebekah Sutcliffe of Greater Manchester Police said: "It is vital we establish the exact circumstances in which Raymond died and determine whether or not it was a criminal act or of self-defence.
