Police officers who tried to save Sunderland murder victim awarded Judge's commendations

PCs Matt Walker and Sonny Simpson, who are Durham Constabulary response officers, provided CPR to Sean Mason who was lay dying behind a block of flats in Penshaw in the early hours of May 16, 2020.

The officers had been flagged down by a cyclist, who was later identified as the victim’s son, while transporting a suspected drug driver to custody.

He directed the officers to the 55-year-old who was unconscious and critically injured following a brutal attack.

The officers immediately set about providing CPR to the man in an effort to keep him alive until paramedics could attend.

Despite efforts by the officers and paramedics, Mr Mason sadly died of his injuries later that morning and a murder investigation was launched.

Detective Chief Superintendent Aelfwynn Sampson, who presented the awards on behalf of the judge, said: “Judge’s commendations are one of the greatest honours police officers can receive as they are awarded by judges who are independent of the police and recognise high standards in investigative work.

“PCs Walker and Simpson were escorting a suspect to custody when they came across a situation which was quickly unfolding around them and they immediately made significant efforts to save a man’s life.

“While doing this they provided invaluable commentary on what was happening at the scene - something which greatly assisted the subsequent investigation.”

Accepting their awards alongside colleagues from Northumbria Police, PC Simpson said: “In a situation like that – particularly when you’re already dealing with a prisoner from a separate incident – there can be a lot happening all at once.

“You approach it as calmly as you can, you prioritise the tasks at hand, and you work together.”

PC Walker added: “We were faced with a man who had clearly been the victim of a particularly vicious attack, but at that point the training kicks in and you do what you can to save their life.”

In December, a jury found 36-year-old Wayne Froud, of Wensleydale Avenue, Penshaw, guilty of Mr Mason’s murder, and his accomplice Steven Milroy, of Avondale Avenue, Penshaw, guilty of manslaughter.

Froud was jailed for life, while Milroy received a 19 year sentence.

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