TRIBUTES have been paid to a “gentle giant” dad who died after a horror attack at a karaoke bar – as cops arrest a man.
Shane Cullen, 31, tragically died following the “violent” altercation in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, in the early hours of Saturday.
Officers were scrambled to the Blues Carbaret and Karaoke Bar on Bow Street at around 2.40am.
Shane was discovered with serious injuries and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
A 36-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and assault.
He is being held in custody for questioning, Greater Manchester Police said.
Shane’s heartbroken family described him as a “caring and loving” dad in a touching tribute released through police.
They said: “Shane was a big, gentle giant who wouldn’t hurt anyone.
“He was a good dad, son and brother. He will be sadly missed. All our hearts are broken and can never be fixed.
“Shane was a joker, always having the last laugh. He was very outgoing, loved to be out rather than stay in.
“He loved getting involved with outdoor activities with his daughter.
“He was a great dad, caring and loving. His family is broken and can never be put back together. Shane would have a smile to light up the room.
“I hoped it didn’t have to come to this. Shane was taken from us much too soon. Rest in peace Shane, we love you.”
Issuing an update on Facebook, Blues Carbaret and Karaoke Bar confirmed it was working with police to assist their murder probe.
It read: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends and everyone affected by this heartbreaking event.
“Out of respect for those grieving, we ask that everyone avoids speculation or sharing unverified information on social media.
“We are fully cooperating with Greater Manchester Police and all relevant authorities as their investigation continues.
“As a mark of respect, and following discussions with the police, we have taken the decision to voluntarily close the venue until we have spoken with the appropriate authorities and departments.
“We would also like to thank the emergency services for their swift response, and our staff and security team for the professionalism they showed during an extremely difficult situation.
“As this is now the subject of an active police investigation, it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.”
Detective Superintendent Ian McNabb urged anyone with information on Shane’s death to come forward.
Mr McNabb said: “This is was a violent and shocking attack that tragically took the life of a young man.
“Our thoughts remain with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
“We currently have a man in our custody and a scene is still in place at this time.
“We would also like to reassure the community we believe this to be an isolated attack and poses no wider threat to the public.
“As we are still in the early stages of our investigation, we are appealing for anyone who may have information to please come forward and report.
“This can be anyone who may have witnessed the incident itself, or has any footage from the area that may support our enquiries.”