AN appeal to trace a man as part of a murder investigation has expanded thanks to a national major incident website.

Cleveland Police launched a murder investigation following the death of Craig Barker, 47, also known as Craig Slater, of Cleatlam Close in Stockton.

Mr Barker was assaulted at his home in the early hours of Sunday morning. He died in hospital on Tuesday after suffering injuries consistent with a sharp edged weapon.

During the incident, the family’s dog Leo was also attacked and killed with what is believed to have been a hammer.

Today, officers initiated the use the UK Police Major Incident Public Reporting Site to help trace a man who they want to speak to in connection with the death.

Cleveland Police head of crime, Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Green, said: “A dedicated team of detectives is working on this case and all necessary specialist resources are being made available to the investigation team. Everyone involved shares a determination to locate and bring to justice the person believed to be responsible for Mr Barker’s death."

Anyone with information can approach any police officer, call 999 or use the new national major incident reporting website at mipp.police.uk/operation/910