Murder investigation launched into Christmas Day death of man in Newbottle
UPDATE: A man has now been charged in connection with this incident
Last updated 27th Dec 2021
UPDATE: 27/12/21
A man has been charged with murder following a suspected assault in Sunderland.
An investigation was launched shortly before 11.20pm on Christmas Day, when officers were alerted by the ambulance service that a man had been injured at an address on Sunderland Road, Newbottle.
Emergency services attended and found 39-year-old Simon Birch of Sunderland with a serious injury consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.
He died at the scene.
Simon’s next of kin are continuing to be offered support by specialist officers.
A suspect was arrested a short time after the alleged incident and was brought into custody.
Adam Jenkins, 34, of Sunderland Road, Newbottle has now been charged with murder and is due to appear before magistrates in Newcastle.
Detective Inspector Graeme Barr, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with Simon’s family and we would ask that their privacy is respected at this awful time.
“A man has now been charged with Simon’s murder and I would ask that people refrain from any speculation on social media or in the local community that could prejudice the live case.
“All parties are believed to be known to each other and there is no wider threat to the public.
“I would like to thank the community for their support and cooperation throughout this investigation, as well as all those who have assisted with our enquiries.”
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
A murder investigation is underway after a man died following a suspected assault in Newbottle.
Shortly before 11.20pm on Christmas Day officers were alerted by the ambulance service that a man had been injured at an address on Sunderland Road.
Emergency services attended and found a man in his 30s who had sustained a serious injury, and died at the scene.
The victim’s next of kin are being supported by specialist officers.
An investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding the incident, and officers remain at the scene to carry out enquiries.
A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Detective Chief Inspector Angela Hudson, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends at this truly devastating time.
“A full investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding what led to this tragic incident.
“All parties are believed to be known to each other and there is no wider threat to the public.
“Officers remain in the area as they continue their investigation and I’d encourage anybody with any concerns to speak to them.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact police.