Sunderland man charged with murder of Andrew John Mather

Wayne Miller, 32, of Dene Street, Sunderland, will appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Monday, June 8.

Police were alerted by the ambulance service to concern for a man at an address in Aintree Road, Farringdon, on Wednesday afternoon.

The body of 48-year-old Mr Mather, of Sunderland, was found inside.

The death was originally being treated as ‘unexplained’ but detectives confirmed on Thursday they had launched a murder inquiry.

Officers also sealed off an address in Purley Road, Plains Farm, and a garage in York Road, New Silksworth, as part of the investigation.

Five people were arrested in connection with the incident and Wayne Miller was charged with murder on the night of June 6.

Detective Inspector Graeme Barr, of Northumbria Police, said: “This remains an incredibly difficult time for Andrew’s family any they are continuing to receive specialist support from our officers.

“In recent days we have been carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the circumstances around his death so we can provide them with some answers.

“That has involved house-to-house enquiries and cordons at a number of addresses across the Sunderland area.

“Five people were initially arrested and last night we charged a man with Andrew’s murder. The other four people arrested have been released under investigation.

“There is no wider risk to the public and we are confident that all those involved have been known to one another.

“I want to thank the local community in Sunderland for their patience and co-operation and we hope this update offers some reassurance.”

Two women, aged 38 and 18, and a 45-year-old man who were arrested on suspicion of murder have been released under investigation.

A 50-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has also been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

Anyone with information is still asked to contact 101 quoting reference 389 03/06/20.

Alternatively, you can use the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website or contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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