Is someone shielding on-the-run fugitive who is wanted in connection with the murder of Michael Price?
FUGITIVE Christopher Hills is wanted by detectives probing the murder of Michael Price, who died almost two weeks after an attack.
A manhunt is today on for the 30-year-old, and police have warned anyone who is shielding him that they could face jail.
Mr Price, 36, suffered head injuries during an incident on Victor Street, in Chester-le-Street, during the early hours of January 13.
He died at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, in Newcastle, on January 24.
Detectives investigating the murder now want to speak to Hills and are actively hunting him.
Several operations have already been carried out as part of the investigation and police today made a fresh appeal for information, saying they believe that friends or associates may be helping him evade arrest.
Det Insp Andy Smith, of Durham Constabulary, said: “It is a priority to find and speak to Christopher Hills in connection with the investigation into the murder of Michael Price.
“It is fair to say we are focussing our efforts to find him in Chester-le-Street and the surrounding area.
“Mr Hills has strong connections with the town and a number of known friends and associates in the area. If anyone knows where he is, they should contact us immediately. If anyone is harbouring him they need to realise they are committing a criminal offence and putting themselves at risk of prosecution”.
Hills, who is also wanted on recall to prison after his parole licence was revoked, is described as being 6ft tall and of heavy build.
Police are warning the public not to approach Hill if they see him, and to contact police immediately. Paul Ronald Watson, 30, of The Crescent, Chester-le-Street, has been charged with murder and remanded to appear before Newcastle Crown Court later this month. Two women, aged 35 and 36, who were arrested last month on suspicion of murder have both been released under investigation.
Anyone with any information about Hills’ whereabouts should contact Durham Constabulary on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
It is a priority to find and speak to Christopher Hills in connection with the investigation into the murder of Michael Price