Sunderland man who died following suspected assault named as suspect charged with murder
The identity of a man who died following a suspected assault in Sunderland has been named – with a suspect charged with his murder.
Northumbria Police have confirmed the man who sadly died was 52-year-old Peter Graham. A photograph of Peter has also been released.
Earlier today (February 20) Northumbria Police confirmed a man had been charged with murder following the incident.
In an updated statement, a Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 7.15am on Tuesday, we received a report via the ambulance service of a suspected serious assault inside an address in Hastings Street in the Hendon area.
“Emergency services attended and found 52-year-old Peter Graham who had sustained serious injuries.
“Despite the efforts of paramedics, he sadly died at the scene a short time later.
“Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team (MIT) immediately launched an investigation with one man swiftly arrested on suspicion of murder.
“The man - Gary Howe, 32, of Hastings Street - has now been charged with murder, sexual assault by touching and assaulting an emergency worker.”
Gary Howe appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court today (Friday) and has been remanded in custody.
He is next due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on Tuesday (February 24).
Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr, of Northumbria Police, said: “The last three days have been incredibly difficult for Peter’s family, and we will continue to support them in any we can as they attempt to come to terms with their devastating loss.
“We would also request that their privacy continues to be respected at this tragic time.
“A suspect has now been charged with Peter’s murder, and we would ask the community to refrain from speculation both online and in the community which could jeopardise the ongoing court proceedings.”