Two men deny murder of Sunderland teenager Kieran Williams

Ben Cook, 19, and Louis Michael Hackett, also 19, are accused of killing Kieran Williams.

The 18-year-old had been reported missing from his home in Sunderland on Monday, April 18, and his body was found in the Pallion area of the city, near the Northern Spire Bridge, on Thursday, June 2, after extensive police searches.

Cook and Hackett appeared at Newcastle Crown Court this morning, via video link to prison.

Both pleaded not guilty to a charge of murder.

A trial, which could last ten days, is due to start on October 31.

No bail applications were made during the hearing.

Cook, of Fordfield Road, and Hackett of Fordenbridge Square, both Ford Estate, Sunderland, were remanded in custody.

After Kieran’s body was found, his mum Tracey Williams said: “My beautiful boy – Kieran had the most beautiful smile and eyes that would light up a room.

“He was such a happy go-lucky lad who loved life and was always smiling, doing his boxing stance and listening to his music.

“We are devastated – absolutely heartbroken and crushed.

“We can’t believe that we will never see him again. Our lives will never be the same.”

An inquest has been opened and adjourned into Kieran’s death. Sunderland’s senior coroner Derek Winter held a short hearing at the City Hall, saying he was satisfied he had died due to unnatural causes.

He adjourned the case until Wednesday, November 23, to allow for Crown Court proceedings to be carried out.