Thornaby double murder: Sicilian couple named as those found dead

Concern was raised about the whereabouts of Francesca Di Dio and Nino Calabrò after family and friends were unable to contact the pair, Italian website 98zero.com is reporting.

Nino Calabrò, who worked at the Grosvenor Casino in Stockton, is believed to be aged 25 while his young partner, Francesca, is aged 20, according to reports.

Cleveland Police officers are still working at the block of flats on Thornaby Road, Thornaby, today, after the couple’s bodies were found in a flat at around 2.10pm yesterday (Tuesday 21).

Read more: First pictures of scene as forensic officers attend double murder at North East flat

Scene of crime officers are carrying out a search of the flat whilst a police cordon remains in place at the site of the former Royal George pub.

Forensic officers at a property on Thornaby Road, Thornaby, where the bodies of two people were found Picture: GRAEME HETHERINGTON (Image: Picture: Graeme Hetherington)

Mr Calabrò has been living and working on Teesside since December 2019 when he started work as a croupier at the casino.

His partner is believed to come from Sicily a few weeks ago to visit him on Teesside over the Christmas period.

Tributes to Mr Calabrò have been posted on Facebook including one from colleague Bobbie Caitlin Davidson saying “can't quite believe it… Nino Calabrò rest in peace man.. can’t believe I was only talking to you on Sunday, gonna miss you loads - you were such a laugh to work with xx”

And another from Laura Dunlop reads: “Such sad news to wake up to this morning. R.I.P Nino Calabrò will always remember you for your amazing customer service and such a big personality. You will be missed by so many and the casino won’t be the same without you.”

Miss Di Dio is believed to be originally from Montagnareale, on Sicily, while Mr Calabrò originally hails from nearby Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto.

At this time, a 21-year-old man remains in police custody. He has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

The block of flats tape off by police. (Image: Picture: GRAEME HETHERINGTON)

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Peter Carr, said: “A man and woman have sadly died and a man remains in police custody in connection with the incident.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have been passing the flats on Thornaby Road, which were formerly known as The Royal George Pub, between 10am and 11am on Wednesday 21st December. If anyone was passing and saw anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious activity, please contact us.”

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A neighbour, whose home overlooks the block of flats, said: "I didn't know anything had happened until all the police vehicles arrived. To be honest, we don't know anybody who lives there."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 228839.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.