Neighbours 'saddened' by death of Sunderland pensioner at centre of murder inquiry as his son faces charges over assault

Tributes have been paid to a Sunderland pensioner whose death is at the centre of a murder inquiry following a Christmas Eve assault.
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Northumbria Police confirmed today, Wednesday, January 20, that the 77-year-old died had died in hospital on Monday, January 18.

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He had been found with head injuries consistent with an assault.

Police were called to a house in Deansfield Close, Chapel Garth, following reports of a disturbance.Police were called to a house in Deansfield Close, Chapel Garth, following reports of a disturbance.
Police were called to a house in Deansfield Close, Chapel Garth, following reports of a disturbance.
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While an investigation was launched immediately to establish how he sustained his injuries and has now been reclassed as a murder inquiry.

Paul Conlon, 43, is due to appear before Newcastle Crown Court on Monday, January 25.

Police have said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

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Neighbours living in the quiet cul-de-sac and nearby said they were saddened to hear of Mr Conlon’s death and described him as a “quiet man” who was friendly and still very active.

Meanwhile online tributes said he was a man who always had a smile and took talk to chat to those he knew.

Andrea Lynn added: “What a terrible thing to happen - Harry was an absolutely lovely man who was always a gentleman and smiling - thoughts and prayers with his wife and sister.

Warren Burton said: “Very very sad news, was a lovely man as well always laughing.”

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Detective Chief Inspector Jane Fairlamb, the senior investigating officer in the case, said: “This is a tragic case which has sadly resulted in Harry’s death, and our thoughts go out to his family at this terrible time.

“Specialist family liaison officers will continue to offer them any support they need as they try to come to terms with their devastating loss.

“They have asked that their privacy is respected at this time and I would also ask the public to avoid any speculation that could prejudice the live court proceedings.

“A man is due to appear in court on Monday in connection with Harry’s death, and various inquiries are still ongoing as part of our investigation.”

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Anyone with information who has yet to come forward is asked to contact police via the Tell Us Something page of the force website or by calling 101 quoting log 531 241220.

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