Britanya Moore/Contributor

A recent flare-up of deadly violence across sections of Manchester has left residents gripped by fear, as communities once considered relatively calm grapple with a troubling wave of shootings.

Between January 21 and February 1, four men were killed in three separate incidents across the parish. According to the head of the Manchester Police Division, Superintendent Carey Duncan, the attacks unfolded over a tense 10-day period.

He outlined that the incidents occurred in New Hall, Old England, along Ellen Street in the parish.

Investigators say the attacks were carried out in distinct circumstances, but police are actively exploring possible connections as part of a wider probe. 

Duncan indicated that investigators are making significant progress in their investigation into the gun attacks.

“We are following some very, very strong leads surrounding these incidents. We have our theories and so we believe that in order to enhance our investigation, we are asking at least two persons that we believe can assist these investigations to turn themselves in to us,” he said.

The superintendent identified the persons of interest as C.J. Wilson, of an Old England address, and Oraine Nelson, otherwise called ‘Prince’, of a May Day address. He urged them to report to the police immediately.

Despite assurances from law enforcement, residents in affected communities have expressed that they are fearful.

An employee at Hargreaves Memorial Hospital, who spoke to Our Today on the condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, described the unease that now shadows her nightly commute.

“It’s not easy,” she said. “After working all day caring for patients, stepping out into the dark to find transportation brings real anxiety. Everybody is talking about fear, and I feel it too. I love my job, but I value my life.”

Her voice trembled as she reflected on the recent killings.

“We are scared,” the nurse admitted. “When you hear about shootings in New Hall, Old England and Ellen Street, you start wondering if you’ll make it home safely. We are healthcare workers we help people every day but now we feel like we could become victims too.”

Residents in several communities say even routine activities such as walking to a nearby shop or waiting on public transportation now feel risky. Some are calling for increased police visibility, particularly in areas where the shootings have been most brazen. They argue that sustained foot patrols and deeper community engagement could serve as a deterrent.

Duncan, meanwhile, reiterated that the police are determined to restore order.

“We want to assure the citizens of Manchester that we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice,” he said. “We are asking members of the public to share any information they may have, as we continue to intensify our operations across the division.”

Still, in some of the hardest-hit districts, uncertainty lingers. For many, the pressing question remains not only who is behind the killings, but when Manchester will once again regain the peace that once defined daily life in the parish.