The family of 38-year-old Michael Anthony Barron who was found deceased at address on Lakeside Rise, Blackley in January 2025 have paid tribute to him
Josh Baxter aged 28 of Blackley was sentenced to four years today at Manchester Minshull Street Court after being found guilty of intentional strangulation or suffocation and unlawfully inflicting grievous bodily harm at an earlier trial.
Following sentencing, his family have released the below statement as they pay tribute to Michael:
“The tragic loss of Michael has devastated our family and left behind a space that can never be filled.
“Michael had such a big personality and an infectious energy. He was kind, genuine, unique, charismatic and utterly full of life, love and ambition. He was a natural born storyteller and could captivate the attention of everyone in a room within minutes using his wit and humour alone.
“Michael was deeply important to so many people, he was a wonderful son, brother and uncle. Above all, he was a great friend with a unique ability to make people feel seen and special and would gladly go out of his way to lift someone’s spirits if they were feeling down.
“Growing up in Ireland in the 90s and 00s, as a gay man was not easy, but instead of hiding who he was Michael lived both loudly and proudly. His self-acceptance helped pave the way for others in the LGBT community. Though he left family behind when he left Waterford, he built a family of his own through friendships in Dublin, Liverpool and Manchester.
“Since Michaels death we have had countless messages from friends he made throughout his life, all echoing the same sentiment. He gave people confidence, strength and pride in who they were. He taught others to stand tall, embrace life fully and live with joy and openness.
“As Michael’s family, we could not be prouder of the man he was. We are so grateful for the years we shared with him and the many happy memories we will carry with us and cherish for the rest of our lives.
“Now that the trial has concluded, we can finally begin to try and move forward and start to process our grief, we are deeply touched and grateful for the love, support and kindness that we have received.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to express our most sincere thanks to Greater Manchester Police and the staff at Manchester Crown Court Minshull Street. Their compassion, professionalism and care have been nothing short of exceptional, and we truly could not have endured the last 12 months without them.”
