The Lime Tree Restaurant building demolished after body found

Emergency services were called to The Lime Tree on Bolton Road, Farnworth, in November 2023 after a blaze broke out.

Firefighters from at least five fire stations were sent to bring the fire under control.

A cannabis farm was found in the immediate aftermath of the incident in the building.

However five days later a concern for welfare went out and a body was found in the building.

It was later identified as being that of Geri Rapo, aged 22.

An inquest into his death was opened at the Bolton Coroner’s Court in December.

Read more: Death  in restaurant might be homicide 

Read more: Lime Tree Restaurant to remain closed after fire

Read more: Man found dead after fire at restaurant 

At that hearing the court was told that GMP’s Major Incident Team was considering whether the death could have been a homicide.

The cause of death was given as the inhalation of smoke.

But now the building has been demolished.

The area between two sets of houses is now fenced off.

Bolton Council did not order the demolition of the building but gave permission for it and assisted with its removal.

Ward councillor Sue Haworth said “13 Bolton Road, Farnworth had been a crime scene, a burnt out building and a risk to the those who may have sought to trespass.

“All demolition of buildings and structures for obvious safety reasons requires demolition planning permission.

"I am informed that the local authority was able to help and assist with an expedited route to demolition. Demolition and other decisions about property are mostly the choice of property owners.”

Police confirmed the investigation into the incident was ongoing and nobody had been charged with anything.

On December 2, DCI Liz Hopkinson, of GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "I speak on behalf of the investigation team when I say the thoughts of everyone remain with the family. Officers have been deployed to support them at this difficult time and we can only imagine the pain of their loss.

"Work remains ongoing with regards to the activities at the building in the time up to the fire. We are committed to establishing the circumstances which led to this tragic event and we will leave no stone unturned when it comes to uncovering any criminal offences which might have taken place."