A MAN found dead at a city centre hostel has been named.
Lee Richard Hall was discovered by staff at the Salvation Army’s Swan Lodge in High Street East, Sunderland, last Friday morning.
The 37-year-old was found shortly before 9am when police and paramedics were called to the hostel.
Detectives arrested three men, aged 21, 26 and 30, in connection with Mr Hall’s death.
They were all questioned by detectives but have since been released on bail.
Mr Hall’s death is still unexplained, after post-mortem tests proved inconclusive. An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned at Sunderland Coroner’s Court on Monday.
Today, the Salvation Army offered its condolences to Mr Hall’s family.
A spokeswoman for charity said: “We are deeply saddened and offer our prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Mr Hall.
“We are working closely with the police as they continue their investigations, and it would not be appropriate for us to comment further until these are completed.
“We strive to offer a supportive environment and high-quality service to help homeless people overcome personal barriers that would prevent them from keeping and sustaining a place of their own.”
The centre accommodates up to 65 single homeless people, over the age of 18, through a direct access programme. Staff there say they are available 24 hours per day and the reception is constantly manned, should people require assistance.
A spokesman added: “The centre has a resettlement programme which provides opportunities for every resident to participate in life skills courses and to be assisted in their progress by a resettlement worker.
“Every effort is made to secure permanent housing for those who are successful in the programme.”
Twitter: @janethejourno
Comments