Murder inquiry after Southwick death - police probe possible mugging link

The victim, named by police as 51-year-old David Wilson, was found dead at an address in Southwick Road, in the Southwick area of Sunderland, on Sunday morning (December 14).

At 11.13am, police were told there was a man with serious injuries in the property, which is thought to have been his home.

Officers and ambulance personnel attended and Mr Wilson was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 34-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

A murder investigation is ongoing and officers are appealing for witnesses to an alleged mugging incident that happened in Southwick Green between 3.30am and 4.15am on Sunday.

Police say they received a report from a man who said he had been mugged near the Post Office cash machine in Southwick Green.

As part of the murder investigation officers want to speak to and identify a man and woman who were seen in the area as it is believed they may have information that could help with the investigation.

Anyone who was in the area between 3.30am and 4.15am and saw anyone is asked to come forward and contact police as soon as possible.

Detective Chief Inspector Christina Barrett said: "We have a 34-year-old man in custody on suspicion of murder and extensive enquiries are underway.

“As part of these enquiries we are looking to see if an alleged mugging that was reported to have happened in the area around Southwick Green is connected in any way.

"We believe that there were people in the area near to the Post Office ATM between 4.05am and 4.20am.

“We need these people to come forward and contact us.

“I'd ask that they, or anyone with information into who they might be, contact us on 101 so we can speak to them."

Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference number 583 14/12/14.

They can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555-111.