14 year old boy charged with murder in Gateshead

Detectives investigating the death of Tomasz Oleszak from Gateshead have charged a teenager with his murder.

The 14-year-old boy has also been charged with attempted wounding and possession of a bladed article.

He is due to appear at Newcastle Magistrates Court this morning at 10am.

He cannot be identified for legal reasons.

The charges come after officers were alerted by the ambulance service on Monday, shortly after 8pm, to a report of a teenager in the Aycliffe Crescent area of the Springwell Estate in Gateshead being seriously injured.

Emergency services attended the scene and found 14-year-old Tomasz, who had suffered a stab wound.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he sadly passed away in hospital the following morning.

Within hours of launching an investigation, officers arrested two teenagers in relation to the incident.

The second person, a 13-year-old girl, who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, has been bailed.

Chief Superintendent Helena Barron, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a tragic incident which has left a family utterly devastated.

“Our thoughts very much continue to be with Tomasz’s loved ones and we will support them in every way we can. We would also ask that their privacy is respected at this time.

“We have now charged a teenager with murder and there is still an on-going investigation so we continue to appeal to the public for information.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information, who has not yet come forward, is asked to pick up the phone and contact police or Crimestoppers.

“I would also remind people that person who has been charged is under the age of 18, is legally entitled to anonymity and must not be named or identified.

“I would further urge people not to speculate about what might have happened as this could also impact our investigation and ongoing court proceedings.”

She added: “While we would reiterate that incidents of this nature are rare in our region, we absolutely recognise the impact they have on the lives of those involved and the wider community.

“When they do occur we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.

“I would therefore also like to echo my previous comments in thanking the community for their support and everyone who has already come forward with information.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20221003-0995. You can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Christopher Atkinson, Head of the Crown Court Unit at CPS North East, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised Northumbria Police to charge a 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, in relation to the fatal stabbing of Tomasz Oleszak in the Aycliffe Crescent area of Springwell Estate on the evening of Monday 3rd October.

“The boy has been charged with one count of murder, one of attempted wounding with intent, and one of having a bladed article in a public place.

"Our thoughts are with the Tomasz Oleszak's family at this difficult time.

“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against the boy are now active and that he has a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Brendan Robson, headteacher of Cardinal Hume Catholic School, said: "As a much-loved and treasured pupil, Tomasz was a dedicated and committed young man who was the life and soul of his friendship group.

"Tomasz was charismatic and engaging, always displaying a great sense of humour.

"He was a loyal friend who others could turn to. As a talented footballer and wonderful team player he has been described by his friends as 'someone you'd always want to have on your team'.

"The staff will remember his warmth, energy and positive personality.

"He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

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