FLATS DEATH: Murder probe

Police hold two men after 55-year-old dies of his injuries

Police are treating the death of a man in Penshaw at the weekend as murder.

Officers were called to a block of flats in Avondale Avenue shortly after 3am on Saturday, after a report of concern for a 55-year-old man.

Emergency services attended and the man was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died a short time after.

Two men, aged 47 and 36, were arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody.

A third man, aged 38, who was also arrested, has since been released without charge.

A large police cordon was in place on Avondale Avenue, in Penshaw, as the investigation into the man’s death got under way.

Bins at the scene were sealed up with police tape and a forensic team was also at another address in the area, which police confirmed was in connection with the inquiry.

Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Chatterton, leading the investigation, said: “This is an incredibly difficult time for the victim's family and they are being supported by specialist officers.

“The investigation remains ongoing and we are determined to make sure those responsible are brought to justice.

“Officers will remain in the area as they continue with their enquiries so if you have any information or wish to speak with them, please make yourself known.

“Anyone else with information is encouraged to get in touch with as soon as possible.”

Police say they believe all those involved in the incident are known to each other.

Officers will be on patrol in the area to offer reassurance to the public.

Detectives are now appealing for anyone with information, or who may have witnessed the incident, to get in touch.

Anyone who has information that may assist the investigation, should contact Northumbria Police on the non-emergency number 101 or use the ‘Tell us Something’ page of the force website quoting reference number 115 16/05/20.

Alternatively anyone who does not wish to contact police directly can speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Forensic investigators were at the scene in Penshaw yesterday.

Police are treating the death as murder.