Man in court on attempted murdercharge
A man has appeared in court accused of attempting to murder an associate in Newcastle city centre.
Dean Stewart is alleged to have stabbed the male multiple times during an attack on Westgate Road on Monday, June 15.
The man suffered stab wounds to his neck and liver and was given a “life saving” emergency blood transfusion by paramedics before being taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary.
The 22-year-old later underwent surgery and was placed in an induced coma, prosecutors said.
Stewart, 25, of Westgate Road, Newcastle, was arrested and appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court to face one count of attempted murder.
Because of the nature of the alleged offence, no pleas were taken and Stewart spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and nationality.
Leslie Burgess, prosecuting, said the alleged attack happened at the Tyneside Foyer, which provides accommodation for disadvantaged young adults, at around 12.30am.
Police were called and the victim was found nearby, and Ms Burgess added: “He is currently in an induced coma having sustained multiple stab wounds, causing a laceration to the liver and a laceration to the carotid artery.
“He needed an emergency blood transfusion by paramedics, who saved his life, then had emergency surgery and is in a critical condition in an induced coma.”
Remanding Stewart into custody, District Judge Paul Currer told him: “Given the nature of the charge you face, you will be dealt with by the crown court. You will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on July 14 at 10am. In the meantime, you’re remanded in custody.”
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said that enquiries were “ongoing” after a 27-year-old man and a 39-year-old woman, who were also arrested, were released on bail.
Officers remained at the scene throughout the day on Monday and specialist search teams could be seen carrying out investigations.