Perseverance Ncube, 35, was discovered with a single wound to her chest before being taken to hospital where she later died of her injuries.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said a 45-year-old man had been arrested by officers on suspicion of murder and remains in custody after fleeing the scene.

Officers were called to reports of a woman found with serious injuries on Dukesgate Grove in Little Hulton, near Salford, at around 2.40 am on Friday.

The force said its inquiries indicated Ms Ncube was known to the suspect and it was a targeted attack.

She 'lived for her children'

Her family said in a statement: "It is with immense pain that we say goodbye to Perseverance Ncube, also known as Percy to her loved ones.

"She was a loving and devoted mother who lived for her children, family, and friends."

They added: "Percy had just celebrated her 35th birthday in October, and her passing has left us with an immeasurable sense of loss.

"Our focus now is on supporting her children as they continue their journey without their mother."

'Horrific attack on a mother'

Detective Chief Inspector Gina Brennand of GMP's Major Incident Team said: "We are in the early stages of our investigation, and an experienced team of detectives continue to work extremely hard to understand a comprehensive timeline of events that will help us piece together what has happened earlier this morning.

"This was a truly horrific attack on a mother, witnessed by her two young children and we really need the public to come forward and give information to us that may be able to assist our enquiries to find answers for them."

GMP is appealing to motorists and residents in the area who may have captured dashcam, CCTV or doorbell camera footage to get in contact.