THREE people have been charged after a pensioner suffered a fatal heart attack following a disturbance in his home.

Billy Jackson, 71, died on the night of September 24 following an incident at his home in Hertburn Gardens, Concord.

A number of people were seen leaving on the night in question and a police investigation was immediately launched.

Now three people have been charged in connection with Billy’s death.

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David Bulmer, 19, of Barmston Way, Washington, is charged with manslaughter, conspiracy to commit burglary, aggravated burglary and possessing an offensive weapon.

Sarah Daniel, 33, of Waterloo Walk, Washington, is charged with manslaughter, conspiracy to commit burglary, aggravated burglary and two counts of fraud by false representation.

Leanne English, 39, of Waterloo Walk, Washington, charged with conspiracy to commit burglary and common assault.

Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Dodds, of Northumbria Police, said: “The last three weeks have been incredibly difficult for Billy’s family as they have tried to come to terms with their devastating loss.

“We will continue to offer Billy’s family any support they need and they have asked that their privacy is respected at this time.

“From the outset, we have been determined to get answers for his family – and those extensive enquiries have now led to three individuals being charged in connection with his death.

“They will now appear before the courts and I would ask that people respect the ongoing live proceedings and avoid any speculation that could jeopardise the case.”

The suspects appeared before magistrates in South Tyneside on Thursday and were remanded into custody. 
They will next appear at Newcastle Crown Court on November 11.

Det Ch Insp Dodds added: “We have got to this point thanks to the amazing support of the local community, with many people coming forward to speak to us.

“We appealed for any information that can help give Billy’s family closure, and we are incredibly thankful to those who did get in touch.

“However, we still believe there may be people in the community who hold the answers to exactly what happened that night. I would again ask anybody who has any information – and who has not yet come to speak to us – to please come forward.”

A 34-year-old man who was also arrested in connection with Billy’s death remains on police bail.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20210924-1288.

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