Detectives investigating a murder in Newcastle have made a further arrest after a man died following a fatal assault in Newcastle city centre.
At 6.20pm yesterday (Wednesday), police received a report that a 52-year-old man had been assaulted inside the doors of the shopping centre at Old Eldon Square and had sustained an injury consistent with a stabbing.
Emergency services attended and the man was taken to hospital where he sadly died.
Officers have now arrested seven males, a 14 year-old, two 15-year-olds and four 17-year-olds in connection with the incident, all of whom have been arrested on suspicion of murder and currently remain in police custody.
Detectives are continuing enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the assault and are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch with police.
The investigation is at very early stage but it appears there has been a coming together at the entrance to the shopping centre, which has led to the victim receiving a single puncture wound to the chest.
It is also believed the weapon involved was a screwdriver.
Chief Superintendent Ged Noble, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a tragic and shocking incident where a man has sadly lost his life.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim and they are being supported by specialist officers at this extremely difficult time.
“Our investigation is ongoing but we have very quickly arrested seven teenagers in connection with the incident, one of which we believe to be the main suspect.
“I appreciate the communities we serve will have concerns and I want to reassure the public and businesses that we are doing all we can to prevent incidents of this tragic nature and ensure people feel safe.
“We will be continuing extra patrols in the area and I would urge anyone with concerns to speak to an officer.
“We’re appealing for anyone who may have information, or who may have witnessed the incident to get in touch with us as any information could be crucial to the investigation.”
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference number 886 14/08/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
