GRANDAD DEATH PROBE
A police watchdog has begun its investigation into the death of a Wearside grandad.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission is examining what happened to Hetton man Stewart Anderson, 54, who died in hospital following an incident outside the Loveshack nightclub, in Walkergate, Durham City, in the early hours of July 24.
The IPCC said it received a mandatory referral from Durham Constabulary as its officers attended the incident.
IPCC investigators were deployed to the scene following Mr Anderson’s death and are continuing their enquiries.
CCTV recorded during the incident has been collated and the body-worn video footage from the officers in attendance has been downloaded. IPCC Commissioner Carl Gumsley said: “Mr Anderson’s family is aware of the IPCC investigation and will be updated on its progress – my sympathies go to them.
“Such investigations are required where there has been police contact with a person in circumstances such as this and where that person sadly later dies.
“I would ask people to be mindful that there is an ongoing criminal investigation, by Durham Constabulary, into Mr Anderson’s death. Our investigation will focus on the actions of the officers during the incident.”
After Mr Anderson’s death, his daughters Kay Allcroft and Kelly Beston spoke of their loss.
Mr Anderson was a freelance tiler by trade and left behind two brothers, his daughters and a two-yearold grand-daughter.
In a statement released through Durham Constabulary, they said: “We are devastated to have lost our dad in such sudden and shocking circumstances.
“Dad was a very hardworking man who, when not at work, was utterly devoted to his beloved granddaughter Neve.
“He will be hugely missed not only by his family but also his circle of friends.”
The IPCC wants anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward via telephone 0800 096 9070 or email: witness@ipcc.gsi. gov.uk