Liam Smith: fundraiser for Wigan businessman killed in gun and acid attack in Shevington collects thousands

Thousands of pounds have now been donated in memory of a Wigan dad and businessman killed in a gun and acid attack.

Liam Smith, 38, was found dead near his home on Kilburn Drive, Shevington, last Thursday evening (24 November), with police warning of ‘hazardous substances’ after finding white powder around his body. They later revealed a post mortem showed Mr Smith had been shot and attacked with acid. He has been described as a “devoted dad” who will be “sorely missed” by his family and a “lovely man” in a host of tributes left online since his death.

A GoFundMe fundraising page for Mr Smith’s family has now raised nearly £6,000 with dozens of donations made within a day of its launch. Amanda Morton, who set up the fund-raising page, wrote: “We can’t begin to imagine what Liam’s family are going through during this immensely difficult time, but wanted to offer this gesture of support. Liam was full of fun and had the kindest of hearts, he has left a space in our lives that will never be filled. Please donate what you can.

“In loving memory of Liam Smith. You will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.”

One message on the page said it was left on behalf of footballer George Melling, a friend for whom Mr Smith had raised money as he battled motor neurone disease, who passed away in April.

Mr Smith, who was originally from Chorley in Lancashire and attended Holy Cross RC High School, worked as an electrician and was a company director of an electrical business.

Police say inquiries are ongoing and you can contact them on 101 quoting incident number 910 of 25/11/2022.