‘Devastated’ family tribute to man at centre of Bacup murder investigation

Lancashire Police have confirmed 36-year-old Luke Harden was killed during the incident in Newchurch Road in the early hours of Saturday morning (November 1).

Officers on patrol in the area came across paramedics giving CPR to Luke on the pavement at about 12.35am.

Despite their best efforts, Luke – who was well-known locally and had a career in modelling – was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lancashire Police launched a murder investigation and a 26-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman from Bacup were both arrested on suspicion of murder.

The force was granted more time to detain and question both suspects on Saturday evening.

Now a tribute has been issued by Lancashire Police on behalf of the family, which described Luke’s “beautiful face” and thanked the “outpouring of love” from his community.

Luke Harden (Image: Family handout)

The family statement said: “There are no words to describe how devastated we all are.

“We wish our Luke could see the outpouring of love from everyone who knows him.

“He is and will always be special to us all, as a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, uncle, boyfriend and friend.

“You will be forever in our hearts and minds, and we are comforted knowing we can shut our eyes and your beautiful face will always be smiling back at us.

“Rest in peace, our gorgeous Luke, until we will meet again.”

A post-mortem examination took place on Sunday morning to establish the cause of Luke’s death.

DCI Bryony Midgley, of Lancashire Police’s major investigations team, said: “A man has lost his life and first and foremost my thoughts remain with Luke’s loved ones at this extremely distressing time.

“I have a dedicated team of officers working around the clock to establish the exact circumstances that led to Luke’s death.

Flowers laid at the scene where man died as murder investigation launched (Image: PHIL TAYLOR ARPS)

“I am aware of speculation surrounding this case, and while I appreciate that people have legitimate concerns, I would like to remind everyone that a grieving family is looking to the police for answers and the spread of misinformation helps nobody.

“Firstly, the male suspect in this case is not an asylum seeker, as has been speculated about online. Secondly, I would ask that people do not guess about the cause of Luke’s death and that it be left to medical experts. Speculation of this nature causes further distress to Luke’s loved ones.

“Finally, I would like to thank the people of Bacup for the information and footage they have provided so far.

“However, we are still asking for anyone who has information that would help our investigation to come forward.

“We are particularly keen to hear from any witnesses or anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage covering the area between 11.45pm and 12.35am to come forward.

“We also want to hear from anyone who was in the Rosemount Working Men’s Club on Friday night.”

Before the force confirmed Luke’s identity, he was named locally on social media as tributes from the community poured in.

Luke Harden at a The Ginger Heart Foundation charity event in 2022 (Image: The Ginger Heart Foundation)

One person said: “Can’t believe the news. You were the life and soul of the party. You had a lot of time for everyone and I had a lot of time for you. Rest in peace Duke.”

Another said: “You are someone that I consider a true friend. Our common interest in music and DJing is what brought us together as friends.

“I don’t really know what to write except that you are a real one brother. Rest In Paradise and save me a seat. Until we meet again, Duke.”

Another said: “Been a tough one to process this morning and still quite hasn’t sunk in. Duke would literally light a room up with that smile of his. Thinking of all his family and close friends at this sad time.”

The Ginger Heart Foundation, a charity that Luke supported by DJing at an event, also posted a tribute.  He helped plan an anniversary event in memory of Shaun Taylor, who took his own life in 2021 after a night out with friends. 

A spokesperson told the Lancashire Telegraph: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Luke. He kept in touch with us regularly and played a huge part in helping to plan our first anniversary event in memory of Shaun.

(Image: PHIL TAYLOR ARPS)

“Luke brought excitement, creativity, and a real zest for life to everything he did. He and a wonderful team of friends dedicated their time and energy to making that event truly special for the whole community.

“Luke was the one who put up the balloon net for the balloon drop, a moment that brought so much joy to everyone there, especially us.

“Alongside his friends, Luke also performed as one of the DJs that evening, all of whom gave their time for free to support the Ginger Heart Foundation and to celebrate Shaun’s life.

“He brought laughter, love, and an unforgettable spirit to the event, and to all of us who had the privilege to know him. Our thoughts and love are with Luke’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Rossendale MP, Andy MacNae, said: “I’m deeply saddened by the news of a tragic death in Bacup. My thoughts are with the family and all affected.

“Lancashire Police are conducting a murder investigation, and urge anyone with information on the death, which occurred on Newchurch Road shortly after midnight last night, to come forward.

“Two people have been taken into custody on suspicion of murder and this is being treated as an isolated event. However, the police have increased their presence in the area as a precaution.

“Please respect the privacy of those grieving and allow the authorities to do their work. If you do have information, please email forcecontrolroom@lancashire.police.uk or contact 101 and quote log 50 of November 1, 2025.”

Source – INDIA TV