Two teenagers have been charged with murder after a 40-year-old died in a stabbing in Gateshead on Saturday (April 27).
Gary Belfield died at the scene on Elliott Drive in Felling after an alleged attack.
Police said Gary, from the Manchester area, was found with injuries consistent with having been caused by a blade shortly after 9.10pm on Saturday.
A second man, in his 20s, was also found seriously injured inside the property. He is recovering and has been discharged from hospital.
A 17-year-old boy and, and a girl of 15, have now been charged with murder. Neither can be named for legal reasons. They are both due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
A second 17-year-old male was charged with attempted murder and remanded in custody following an appearance at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (May 1).
In total eight arrests were made as part of an investigation by Northumbria Police.
Two males and three females, all aged between 21 and 51, remain on police bail pending further enquiries.
Gary’s heartbroken family paid tribute to “caring” 40-year-old earlier this week.
They said: “He was a caring friendly person who was popular in his hometown. He never looked for or got into trouble.
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“As a family, we are shocked and devastated at what has happened. We are trying to process the events of the last four days and grieve our loss.”
Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts remain with Gary’s family and loved ones as they grieve following this unspeakable tragedy.
“Our officers continue to support them in any way we can, and we would ask the public to avoid speculation both in the community and online which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.”
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