Murder inquiry into woman's death after two bodies found at house in Sunderland's Satley Gardens

Detectives have confirmed they are treating the death of a 68-year-old woman as a suspected murder after emergency services discovered two bodies at a house in Satley Gardens, Sunderland.

The body of a 44-year-old man who was also found at the Tunstall house – although only one death is being treated as a suspected murder.

An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths, and at this early stage, nobody else is believed to have been involved.

Northumbria Police confirmed to the Echo that the force was initially called to reports of concern for a woman at the property on Satley Gardens, off Essen Way.

A police presence remained at the property overnight after emergency services discovered the bodies on Wednesday morning (February 26).

Neighbours say a mother and her adult son lived at the house.

Detective Chief Inspector Jane Fairlamb, the senior investigating officer of the case, said: “This is a tragic case that has led to the deaths of a man and a woman.

“Their next of kin have been notified and are currently being supported by a team of specialist family liaison officers. Our thoughts go out to them at this awful time.

“Forensic teams have been at the address overnight and officers will continue to remain at the property throughout today to carry out a range of enquiries.

“I would like to reassure members of the community that there is no wider threat to the public and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident at this stage.

“The man and woman were known to each other and we are continuing to investigate the circumstances behind their deaths.”

Neighbours told the Echo of their shock at hearing of the news.

One woman, who asked not to be named, said: “There were a lot of emergency service vehicles when we went out at about 1pm and there was still a police car when we came back around 3.30pm – in fact I think there’s been a police car there all night.

“I didn’t really know them very well. It was a mother and son that live there.

“It’s really shocking, it’s not something you expect round here.”

Police officers remain at the scene with a car outside the front and back of the property.

Message of support and tributes have poured in on social media as the community comes to terms with the sudden deaths.

Police have not yet confirmed the names of the two people but has said their next of kin has been informed.

Another neighbour said: “The CID were round last night questioning everybody on the street.

“I’ve been told there were a lot of police here yesterday and they’re still here now. The forensics were here until late last night.

“It’s normally quiet round here, it’s normally no bother.”

Anyone with information surrounding the deaths is asked to call 101 quoting log 230 260220 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.