Man who died after city centre stabbing named by murder detectives as Christopher Ritchie

Officers were called at 8.30am today, Thursday, March 19, following reports that a man had been found with what are believed to be stab wounds in Mitchell Street, just a short distance away from North Road.

Paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service and Great North Air Ambulance also attended, but the man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

Formal identification has yet to take place, but Durham Constabulary – which earlier today confirmed a murder inquiry had been launched – believe the man to be Christopher Ritchie.

The 41-year-old is known in the area and detectives are appealing for anyone who may have seen him this morning to get in touch.

At the time of the incident, he was wearing a dark padded jacket, dark trousers, black Nike trainers and a distinctive black, dark blue and turquoise baseball cap with white Hollister logo on it.

He also used crutches.

A police cordon remains in place around the scene tonight and people are being urged to avoid the area while officers carry out their inquiries.

Forensic officers have been seen at the scene as part of the inquiry into how Mr Ritchie sustained his injuries.

Detective Chief Superintendent Adrian Green, who is leading the investigation, said: “I would like to offer my condolences to the family of Mr Ritchie following this tragic incident.

“They are currently being supported by specially trained officers.

“Mr Ritchie was known in the local area and I would like to speak to anyone who may have seen him during 7am and 8.30am today in the bus station area, as well as anyone else who may have information that could help our investigation.”

Bus services in the area have been diverted while the police inquiry continues.

Anyone who has any information is asked to call police on 101, quoting incident number 56 of March 19.

Alternatively, information can be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.