Woman charged with murder of man in Newcastle
The identity of a man who died following a suspected assault in Newcastle can now be confirmed – as a woman is charged with his murder.
At 6.30pm on Monday police received a report of a disturbance at an address on Sceptre Place, in the Elswick area of the city.
Emergency services attended and a man was found to have sustained serious injuries consistent with being caused by a bladed article.
Despite the efforts of paramedics the man – who can now be named as John Hardy, 68, of Sceptre Place – died a short time later.
His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers.
Following John’s death, Northumbria Police launched a full investigation into the circumstances and a woman was arrested.
The woman – Brenda Heslop, 62, of Sceptre Place, Newcastle – has now been charged with murder.
She is due to appear before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday).
Officers remain in the area to carry out enquiries in relation to the incident and also offer reassurance to the public.
Detective Inspector Mark Atherton, of the Force’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts continue to be with John’s family at this extremely difficult time.
“We will offer them all of the support we can as they attempt to process the events of the past couple of days.
Detective Inspector Atherton added: “A suspect has now been charged to appear in court and I’d ask that everyone avoid speculation – both online and in the community – and respect the active legal proceedings.
“Thank you to all of those who have so far provided information towards our investigation.
“If you have details which could assist us, then please get in touch.”
Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police by sending the Force a direct message on social media, using the live chat on the Force website or by going to www.northumbria.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
Members of the public can also provide information through the online Public Portal.
For those unable to contact the Force via those ways, call 101.
Please quote log number NP-20241111-0911.