A MURDER investigation is underway after the death of a man who was attacked at the weekend.

Shortly before 4pm on Saturday police received a report that a 36-year-old man had been assaulted on Borough Road in Sunderland.

Emergency services attended and the man, who suffered serious injuries as a result of the assault, was taken to hospital.

He died yesterday as a result of his injuries.

His family have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers at this time.

An investigation was launched immediately after the incident and police have arrested a 32-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

He remains in police custody and is assisting officers with their enquiries.

Two other men, aged 31 and 29, were arrested in connection with the incident and have been released under investigation.

Detective Inspector Graeme Barr, Northumbria Police's senior investigating officer on the case, said: “First and foremost are thoughts are with the family of the man who has sadly lost his life as a result of this tragic incident.

“We have specialist family liaison officers who are supporting them at this devastating time and I would ask that the family’s privacy is respected as they come to terms with their loss.

“This incident happened in the street as a violent altercation broke out between a group of men. Sadly, as a result of the attack, the victim suffered significant injuries and died in hospital two days later.

“Enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what has happened and how the victim in this case has ultimately lost his life.

"One man remains in custody while we are speaking to two other people of interest at this time.

“I would like to make it clear that all those involved were known to each other and there is no wider risk to members of the public in the area. A team of detectives are now working to establish the facts and we’d encourage any witnesses to come forward.

“A number of people are believed to have witnessed the attack, so we want to hear from those people – as well as any motorists passing that area at the time who may have dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact police on 101 quoting log 727 010820. Alternatively, people can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111 or report information at the Northumbria Police website.