Further arrest in drugs deaths probe

An eleven th person has been arrested as part of the ongoing Northumbria Police investigation into the tragic deaths of the four young people.

The force launched an inquiry into the deaths of the 18- year-old man from Washington, the two 18-year-old Newcastle University students and the 21-year-old Northumbria University student at the weekend.

A number of arrests were made early in the investigation, with three men – aged between 18 and 21 – now released on police bail.

Seven other individuals were also arrested by Northumbria Police and subsequently released under investigation.

On Tuesday, a police spokesperson confirmed that a 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs – he was the 11th arrest in the inquiry.

The man has now been released on police bail.

Chief Inspector Steve Wykes said: “We are all still in shock at what has been an incredibly sad and difficult weekend. “Public safety is our absolute priority and we are working closely with our partners at the universities and in the local authorities to ensure all students and everyone living in our local communities are fully supported at this time.

“We are committed to tackling illegal drugs supply as these substances have no place in our communities.

“If you are in possession of illegal drugs, we would encourage you to dispose of them safely and not run the risk of causing yourself any harm by taking them.”