Police confirm murder investigation as two men remain in custody after Penshaw death

Officers were called to a block of flats in Avondale Avenue shortly after 3am on Saturday, May 16 after a report of concern for a 55-year-old man.

Emergency services attended and the man was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died a short time after.

Two men, aged 47 and 36, were arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody.

A third man, aged 38, who was also arrested, has since been released without charge.

A large police cordon was in place on Avondale Avenue, in Penshaw, as the investigation into the man’s death got under way.

Bins at the scene were sealed up with police tape and a forensic team was also at another address in the area, which police confirmed was in connection with the enquiry.

Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Chatterton, leading the investigation, said: “This is an incredibly difficult time for the victim's family and they are being supported by specialist officers.

“The investigation remains ongoing and we are determined to make sure those responsible are brought to justice.

“Officers will remain in the area as they continue with their enquiries so if you have any information or wish to speak with them, please make yourself known.

“Anyone else with information is encouraged to get in touch with as soon as possible.”

READ MORE: Pictures as investigations continue in Penshaw after man's death

Police say they believe all those involved in the incident are known to each other. Officers will be on patrol in the area to offer reassurance to the public.

Detectives are now appealing for anyone with information, or who may have witnessed the incident, to get in touch.

Anyone who has information that may assist the investigation, should contact Northumbrioa Police on the non-emergency number 101 or use the ‘Tell us Something’ page of the force website quoting reference number 115 16/05/20.

Alternatively anyone who does not wish to contact police directly can speak to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper.

Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper.

Thank you

How to subscribe to the print edition

It’s easy to subscribe to your local newspaper. We have arranged a special 20 per cent off subscription offer for people to take advantage of. Visit www.localsubsplus.co.uk, choose the newspaper title, the type of subscription and enter your details.