Police hunt man, 31, who ‘may be abroad’ after brutal 2023 Weaste attack

The victim suffered a bleed on the brain and is still recovering from his injuries, more than two years on

Detectives are searching for a man wanted in connection with a serious assault that left a victim with a bleed on the brain. Greater Manchester Police has today (April 19) issued an urgent appeal to trace Max Capps, 31, of no fixed address, who is believed to be overseas.

The force says he is wanted in connection with an assault that took place more than two years ago. Officers believe he may be able to help their investigation.

The incident took place in Weaste, Salford, shortly after midnight on Tuesday, December 5 2023. It is believed a man was approached from behind and struck twice in the head with a weapon. The impact caused him to fall, before he was slashed with a knife by the attacker.

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As well as a bleed on the brain, the victim suffered a fractured skull and two facial wounds. He was left requiring urgent medical treatment and he continues to recover from his injuries today, GMP says.

Officers are now appealing directly to the public to help find Capps. GMP says that since the offence took place, detectives have carried out extensive and wide‑ranging enquiries which have not yet been successful.

He is now believed to be abroad and has remained outstanding for more than two years. Anyone with information about Capps’ current whereabouts, or who may have had contact with him since December 2023, is urged to come forward to GMP.

Detective Constable Ruth Canning, of Salford CID, said: “This was a brutal attack which left the victim requiring urgent medical treatment and has a sustained effect on his life. We have been pursuing every line of enquiry since the incident and despite these efforts, the victim has not been able to get justice.

“We believe someone may have information about where he is now or may have been in contact with him since December 2023. I would urge anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward.”

Information can be provided by calling 101, quoting crime reference number CRI/06FF/0035887/23. Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online here.