£50, 000 Reward In Hunt For Salford Gunman

Witnesses who help convict the gunman who shot down Lee Erdmann in a Salford pub could receive the life-changing sum of £50,000.

Lee, 37, was shot in the Wellington pub on Regent Road, Salford, some time before 3am on Saturday 10 September 2011.

It is believed Lee had been standing at the bar, in the lounge of the pub, when the gunman calmly walked up to him, shot him in the chest, and left.

An extensive investigation carried out by the Major Incident Team has seen officers interview hundreds of people, a number of which were in the pub at the time of the shooting.

Detectives continue to believe a number of witnesses from the pub have yet to come forward. They now want to hear from anyone who can provide the piece of information that could help convict the gunman.

A reward of £50,000 is now available for anyone who provides information leading to the conviction of the person or people responsible for the murder. It is unusual for such a large amount of money to be offered at this stage of a murder inquiry, but the nature of the incident means people are sometimes reluctant to come forward.

Five men have been arrested and bailed over the shooting, but detectives continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Chadwick, of the Major Incident Team, is leading the investigation. He said: "This was the brutal and targeted murder of an unarmed, defenceless man, who was simply enjoying a drink at the pub.

"The gunman didn't say anything to Lee - it was simply cold-blooded.

"We know without a doubt that there are still people out there who know the truth but haven't come forward.

"We believe there were a number of people in The Wellington that we have not yet spoken to - some of them may have seen a man shot dead before their eyes.

"If you come forward we will protect you. There are a range of measures we can take that can ensure you can give evidence safely.

"I'm hoping the reward of £50,000 for your bravery will help you do the right thing and come forward.
It is very unusual to offer such a large sum, but we understand people are worried about their safety when speaking to the police.

"It is life-changing amount of money that could have a massive impact on someone's quality of life

"A significant police presence remains on the streets to provide a visible reassurance ."

Anyone with information isasked to call the Major Incident Team on 0161 856 1722 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.