Police can now reveal the identity of a man who died following an assault in Sunderland city centre over the weekend.
At around 1.28am on Sunday (February 24), police received a report that a man had been injured behind The Borough Pub, in Sunderland.
Emergency services attended and an 18-year-old man was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries consistent with those of a stabbing. Sadly, he passed away shortly after.
Officers can now confirm that the victim died as a result of the assault was Connor Brown, 18, of Sunderland.
His family are being supported by specialist officers and have asked that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with the devastating loss.
A murder investigation is ongoing and police have now arrested a second man on suspicion of murder.
Two men – aged 19 and 20 – remain in police custody and are assisting officers with the enquiries.
Detective Chief Inspector John Bent, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a young man who had his entire life ahead of him.
“We are committed to determining the circumstances behind Connor’s death and a thorough investigation is ongoing as we look to bring those responsible to justice.
“Two people have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody, and we will continue to speak to those individuals throughout the day.
“We are not treating this as a random attack and I would like to reassure the community that we will leave no stone unturned in finding out the truth behind Connor’s death.
“Officers will continue to be seen in the area over the coming days as they carry out enquiries. Anyone with any concerns is asked to speak to an officer.”
Police are still keen to hear from any witnesses to the incident, and have asked anybody who is yet to do so to get in touch.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 124 240219 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
