DETECTIVES investigating the murder of a man in Sunderland have confirmed the victim is Andrew John Mather.
Shortly after midday on Wednesday officers were alerted by the ambulance service to concern for a man at an address on Aintree Road
- Five arrested as police treat death as murder
Emergency services attended and found the body of Mr Mather, 48, of Sunderland inside the address. His family are being supported by specialist family liaison officers at this time.
Detective Inspector Graeme Barr, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to Andrew’s family. This is a tragic time for them and we will continue to support them in any way we can.
“They have asked for their privacy to be respected as they come to terms with their devastating loss.
“Over the last 24 hours, we have been carrying out a range of enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding Andrew’s death. We have spoken to a number of individuals in connection with the incident and five people remain in custody.
“An increased police presence remains at the scene as officers carry out enquiries and offer any reassurance to the public.”
An investigation has been launched into Andrew’s death, which officers are treating as suspicious.
Two men – aged 32 and 45 – and two women - aged 38 and 18 – have been arrested on suspicion of murder. A 50-year-old man has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
All five individuals remain in police custody and are assisting officers with their enquiries.
Det Insp Barr added: “We would like to thank those who have come forward with information, and ask anybody else who say anything suspicious on Aintree Road between Tuesday evening and Wednesday lunchtime to get in touch with police as soon as possible.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference 389 030620. Alternatively, you can use the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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