Man who confessed to 1994 masked gang murder jailed

A man who walked into a police station and confessed to a murder more than 30 years ago has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

Robert Lloyd, now 53, was part of a group of masked men who attacked Michael McDermott, 26, at his relative's home in Moston, Manchester, on 9 November 1994.

Armed with baseball bats and knives, the offenders burst through the front door of the property at about 22:30 GMT. They inflicted several injuries on McDermott, including stab wounds, as he lay on the sofa.

Lloyd was jailed at Manchester Crown Court for a minimum of 17 years in March, but reporting restrictions had previously been in place due to ongoing police inquiries.

Following the attack at the house in Ashville Terrace, the group ran across the road to an alleyway and on to Oakville Terrace to a waiting vehicle which then drove them from the scene.

The case was reopened by Greater Manchester Police's major investigation team last October after Lloyd, from Denton, Tameside, confessed.

He subsequently pleaded guilty to the charge of murder in March.

Det Insp Rachel Smith said: "Michael's death 30 years ago was devastating for his loved ones and has left unanswered questions ever since.

"It is my hope that Michael's family feels a sense of reassurance and peace after this sentencing."

The police investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to identify other individuals involved in the attack.

"Our investigation into the circumstances of Michael's tragic death are very much active and I urge anyone with information to please come forward," Smith said.

"I can assure you, it's not too late."

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