THE family of a primary school teacher who was stabbed to death at her home have said she was the ‘best person anyone could meet’.
Grieving relatives of Julie Parkin have been left devastated by her brutal murder in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
The 39-year-old, who lived at Kirkwall Close in the Castletown area of Sunderland, suffered fatal knife wounds during the attack.
Her family said: “Julie was the best person anyone could ever meet.
“She was the perfect child. She was beautiful inside and out and she brought something special to everyone she met.”
It is understood Ms Parkin had a 17-year-old son and a daughter, 15.
She worked as a year three and four teacher at West Boldon Primary School.
Flowers at the gates of West Boldon Primary School
Her family added: “We are all utterly devastated. Her children are devastated. It is so tragic and we can't ever understand why anyone would do this.
“We would like to thank the school for their support. The teachers and kids have been brilliant and their support means so much to us.
“Julie was like a Mam to them all. Everyone who has been in touch, we thank you for your kind words, it really has been a comfort for us at this hugely difficult time."
Police were called to her house at around 12.10am on Tuesday.
Investigating officers have said Ms Parkin died following a domestic incident and have arrested a 35-year-old man on suspicion of murder.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here