Murder investigation continues after man, 24, dies following assault in Sunderland

Emergency services were called to Park Avenue in the Silksworth area of the city shortly after 1am on Friday, June 18 following reports of an assault at a property on the street.

A 24-year-old man was found with ‘serious, life-threatening’ injuries and died at the scene.

Police say his family have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers at this time – although the victim’s name has not yet been confirmed by detectives.

An investigation was immediately launched and police have arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

Detectives have confirmed the man arrested and the victim are known to each other and have reassured residents this was not a random attack between strangers.

On Friday, Detective Chief Inspector Jane Fairlamb, from Northumbria Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET), said: “Firstly I would like to say my thoughts are with the victim’s family at this incredibly difficult time.

“We have deployed specially-trained officers to support them and we would ask you to respect their privacy as they come to terms with what has happened.

“We know that incidents like this can have a big impact on the local community and enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what has happened.”

Forensics teams remained at the scene on Park Avenue, Silksworth, on Friday, and police officers patrolled the area throughout the day as they carried out enquiries and spoke to concerned residents.

Those living on the normally quiet street have spoken of their shock following the incident, describing it as ‘scary and upsetting.’

One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: "It’s really shocking. You don’t expect it on your doorstep, it’s like something out of a movie scene.

"He’s just so young, it’s quite scary and upsetting.”

Residents also left flowers outside the house as they paid tribute to the ‘really nice lad’.

As the investigation continues, Northumbria Policeis urging anyone with information to contact them via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of their website or by calling 101 quoting log 58 18/06/21.

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