TRIBUTES have been paid to a man shot by police.

James Wilson was reportedly shot once in the chest following a stand-off with Northumbria Police officers in South Shields, South Tyneside, early last Tuesday morning (March 29).

The 24-year-old died in hospital late on Friday night (April 1).

Carl Gumsley, a commissioner with the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), which is investigating the shooting, said: “Our thoughts are with James’ friends and family at this very difficult time.”

Flowers, pictures and messages have been left at the scene of the shooting and Mr Wilson’s brother, Carl Wilson Jr, 27, who was with him when he died, said he was a “lovely guy”.

“He was funny and bubbly. He was a funny little lad. We’re all really going to miss him.”

Mr Wilson’s mother Tracey Todd, who lived with him on the town’s Candlish Street, and girlfriend Kayleigh Reay have said they are too upset to speak about his death publicly.

Armed police were called to Frenchman’s Way at about 1am on Tuesday (March 29) following reports of a man with a handgun.

Mr Wilson, also known as Cornet, was shot after having apparently been told by police to “put the gun down”.

The IPCC has said a weapon was recovered from the scene.