A man whose body was found covered in a “potentially hazardous” substance had been fatally shot and doused in acid, police have said.

Liam Smith was found dead in the Wigan suburb of Shevington on Thursday evening, according to Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The 38-year-old’s body was discovered on “rough ground” in a residential street near some playing fields.

The force said “potentially hazardous substances” were found on his body and ordered a Home Office post-mortem examination.

In a statement on Sunday, GMP said: “Initial information indicates that the victim was subject of a fatal gunshot wound and an acid attack.

“Following examination and tests, the hazardous substances are believed to not pose any further harm, threat or risk to the public in the surrounding area and have been contained.”

Detective Chief Inspector Gina Brennand, who is leading the investigation, said it was a “shocking murder of a much-loved family man”.

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She added: “I have a team of detectives working around the clock and I urge anyone who has seen anything unusual or out of the ordinary near to the victim’s home during the day and early evening of Thursday 24 November to contact the major incident room.”

The senior detective said police were “determined to recover the weapon and find Liam’s killer”.

Paying tribute to Mr Smith, his family said he was “kind-hearted, funny, the life and soul of the party”.

“He was the most devoted dad, much loved son, brother, grandson and uncle,” they added.

“He will sorely be missed by all who knew and loved him.”

Police have said anyone in the area who had any direct contact with Mr Smith’s body should contact the force.

No arrests have been made and detectives have launched a murder investigation, with a crime scene still in place.

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