Woman at centre of Breightmet murder investigation named

Emma McGowan, 39, was pronounced dead after police were called to an incident at a house on Yewdale Avenue, Breightmet, in the early hours of Tuesday, August 4.

Officer announced later that day they were treating the incident as a murder investigation, and Ms McGowan’s family have now paid tribute to her.

A family spokesperson said: “A much-loved daughter and adored mother to four young children.

Floral tributes at the scene (Image: Phil Taylor)

“Our hearts are broken, and we will miss you forever.”

On Thursday, August 6, Greater Manchester Police announced that they had charged Joseph Webb, 36, with murdering Ms McGowan.

A force spokesperson said: “We have charged a man in relation to the death of a woman in Bolton on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Officers investigating at the scene (Image: Phil Taylor)

“Officers were called to an address on Yewdale Avenue, Bolton at around 3.15am.

“Upon attendance, they located a woman, aged in her 30s, unresponsive with significant injuries.

“Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.”

Webb, of Yewdale Avenue, Breightmet, is expected to appear before Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court later today (Thursday, August 6).