Man jailed for life after confessing to brutal 1994 Manchester murder over 30 years later

A man has been jailed for life after he walked into a police station and confessed his involvement in a murder over 30 years ago.

Robert Lloyd, 53, admitted to officers his part in the brutal killing of 26-year-old Michael McDermott in Moston, Manchester, back in November 1994.

Lloyd was part of a group of masked men carrying baseball bats and knives who attacked McDermott at a relative’s home in Ashville Terrace.

The offenders burst through the front door of the property at around 10.30pm on 9 November and inflicted several injuries, including stab wounds, on McDermott as he lay on a sofa.

In the aftermath of the attack, the assailants ran across the road to a ginnel and onto Oakville Terrace to a waiting vehicle which then drove them from the scene.

The case was reopened by Greater Manchester Police’s (GMP) major investigation team last October following Lloyd’s confession.

Back in March, Lloyd, from Denton, Tameside, was jailed at Manchester Crown Court for a minimum of 17 years after he pleaded guilty to murder but reporting restrictions were placed on the case as police inquiries continued.

The reporting restrictions were lifted by a judge in a hearing at the same court on Monday.

The police probe remains ongoing as detectives bid to identify the other individuals involved in the attack.

Detective Inspector Rachel Smith, from the major investigation team, said: “Michael’s death 30 years ago was devastating for his loved ones and has left unanswered questions ever since.

“Whilst our investigation into this attack continues, it is my hope that Michael’s family feels a sense of reassurance and peace after this sentencing. They continue to be supported by specialist officers.

“Our investigation into the circumstances of Michael’s tragic death are very much active and I urge anyone with information to please come forward. I can assure you, it’s not too late.”

Anyone with information can contact 0161 856 4814 quoting log 1118 of 29/10/2025, or can report via live chat on the GMP website.

Alternatively, you can report anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or visit the major investigation portal at mipp.police.uk/operation/0601020302B18-PO1