Murder investigation launched after death of man in Northumberland
Police are investigating after a man died, following an assault
Police are investigating after a man died, following an assault in Northumberland.
Shortly after 8.20am on Wednesday, August 23, police were contacted by medical staff at Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital in Cramlington who were caring for an injured man.
It was reported that the man – who can now be named as 39-year-old Andrew Peart – had previously sustained a head injury and attended Accident and Emergency to be checked over earlier that day.
After being admitted to hospital, his condition deteriorated and sadly, despite the best efforts of medical staff, he died from his injuries earlier today (Wednesday).
Andrew’s next of kin have been informed and are currently being supported by specialist Family Liaison Officers.
An investigation was launched by officers from the Force’s Major Investigation Team, who believe Andrew’s injuries were sustained as a result of a suspected assault on Stakeford Lane, near Guide Post Working Men’s Club, in Guide Post, Northumberland sometime between 10.15 and 10.30pm on Tuesday, August 22.
Today (Wednesday), officers have confirmed they are now treating Andrew’s death as murder.
A 28-year-old man previously charged with causing grievous bodily harm in relation to this incident appeared before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on Monday, August 28. Following the hearing he was remanded in custody.
Enquiries into the tragic incident are continuing and officers are asking anyone with information to get in touch.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr, said: “Firstly, my thoughts and the thoughts of everyone at Northumbria Police are with Andrew’s family and friends at this tragic time.
“We will continue to support them in whatever way we can as they come to terms with their loss.”
Det Ch Insp Barr added: “This is an incredibly serious incident and a number of enquiries are being carried out to determine exactly what happened leading up to and following the assault – but we still need the public’s help.
“We’d like to hear from anyone who may have been in the Stakeford Lane area of Guide Post on the night of Tuesday, August 22, particularly around Guide Post Working Men’s Club.
“This includes any motorists who may have dash-cam footage as they passed the area between 10pm and 10.45pm, or any residents or business owners who may have CCTV or doorbell camera footage in the vicinity.
“Although we believe this is an isolated incident – and there is no risk to the wider public – officers remain in the area to offer reassurance to the community and carry out enquiries to assist with the ongoing investigation.
“Any information, however small, could be really helpful to our ongoing investigation, so please get in touch if you think you can help – we’d like to hear from you.”