17-year-old baby-faced killer who stabbed dad to death identified for first time

Jordan Rance, 17, has been jailed for 21 years after he stabbed Paul Marsh, 49, in the shoulder following an argument
Jordan Rance, 17, has been jailed for 21 years after he stabbed Paul Marsh, 49, in the shoulder following an argument -Credit:SWNS


A baby-faced killer who stabbed a dad to death over a 'minor disagreement' has today been unmasked for the first time after he was jailed for murder. Jordan Rance, 17, has been sentenced to life with a minimum of 21 years for the murder of Paul Marsh, 49, after the pair started arguing.

Emergency services were called to a property in Atherton, Greater Manchester, on November 17 last year after Paul was stabbed in the shoulder. Rance and his friend fled the scene, while others attempted first aid and called an ambulance.

Police then arrived at the property in Samuel Street and discovered that Paul had a serious injury, but he died a short time later. After pleading guilty to murder at an earlier hearing, Rance was today (May 8) jailed for 21 years at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court.

Rance, who once chillingly took a selfie with a knife wearing a black coat and black balaclava, can today be named after a judge lifted reporting restrictions. Detective Chief Inspector Neil Higginson said the case should be a "stark reminder" that carrying a knife for self-protection is "not a reasonable excuse".

A selfie of Jordan Rance posing with a knife
A selfie of Jordan Rance posing with a knife -Credit:Greater Manchester Police/SWNS

He said: "This is a tragic case in which a seemingly innocuous exchange has escalated and resulted in a loss of life. Our thoughts remain with Paul’s family at this time.

“We also have a young person going to prison for a long time. This case should serve as a stark reminder that carrying a knife is illegal and you could be jailed if you're found to be in possession of one. No good can come from carrying a knife and self-protection is not a reasonable excuse.”