A mother whose teenage son was murdered in a knife attack has offered her condolences to the family of a 14-year-old boy who died following a suspected stabbing.

Zoey McGill, who lost her son Jack at the age of 18 almost a year ago said she was heartbroken to hear of the death of Tomasz Oleszak in Gateshead on Monday.

Police have launched a murder investigation after the teenager died from stab wounds following a suspected assault in a Whiteshill Nature Park.

Officers have arrested a 14-year-old boy on suspicion of murder and he remains in custody.

The Northern Echo: Tomasz OleszakTomasz Oleszak (Image: Picture: NORTHERN ECHO)

A 13-year-old girl has also been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and is also in custody.

It brings back painful memories for Zoey McGill, who is campaigning to raise awareness of the dangers of knife crime to prevent young people losing their lives.

Jack died he day after he was attacked leaving the fun fair at the Houghton Feast last October.

Ten youths were convicted of murder following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court earlier in the year.

The Northern Echo: Jack Woodley died after he was attacked leaving the Houghton FeastJack Woodley died after he was attacked leaving the Houghton Feast (Image: Jack Woodley died after he was attacked leaving the Houghton Feast)

Zoey, from Newton Aycliffe, said: “I am absolutely heartbroken for his parents I know exactly how they will be feeling.

“They won’t be feeling at all probably still numb and in shock.

“It is sickening, it really is. We live in terrible times.

“I’d like to pass on my condolences.”

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It comes as Chief Superintendent Helena Barron of Northumbria Police last night paid tribute to the young man and thanked those who had come forward with information.

She said: “Tomasz had his whole life ahead of him and this tragic incident has cut that life short and left his family utterly devastated.

“Their grief is unimaginable and they are in the thoughts of everyone at Northumbria Police as we continue to support them in every way we can.

“The investigation is very much ongoing and I want to thank the Springwell Estate community and everyone who has come forward with information for their support.

“While incidents of this nature are rare in our region, we do recognise the impact they have on the lives of those involved and the wider community.

“When they do occur we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”

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