TWO men have been charged with murder following the death of a man in Sunderland.

Shortly before 9.45am on December 3 last year, police received a report of a concern for a man on Saltburn Road.

Emergency services attended and found the body of 22-year-old Blaine Hammond who was later sadly pronounced dead.

An investigation was immediately launched into the circumstances surrounding his death and on Tuesday (May 10), two men, both 22, have now been charged with his murder.

They are due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside on Wednesday (May 11).

Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Chatterton, of Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Firstly, our thoughts remain with the loved ones of Blaine and we will continue to offer his family specialist support while they continue to come to terms with what has happened.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank those who have supported our investigation, as well as the local community for your support and cooperation.

“Now that we have two suspects due in court, I would ask that people refrain from any speculation, both in public and on social media, that could jeopardise those legal proceedings.

“I urge anyone with information which could assist the investigation or relates to this incident to contact the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 135735V/21 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.