A woman has died following an incident in a County Durham town on Monday evening.

An investigation has been launched following the death of the 48-year-old in Spennymoor.

Emergency services were called just before 5.30pm following concerns for a woman at an address in Craddock Street. 

Read more: Police tape off County Durham street as emergency services deal with serious incident

Police attended along with doctors and paramedics but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 50-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident and taken into police custody where he remains.

A police cordon remains in place around the scene while officers carry out their enquiries.

The Northern Echo:

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Barker, who is leading the investigation, said: “This investigation is in the very early stages and we are working to establish exactly what has happened.

“I would like to reassure residents that we do believe this to be an isolated incident and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it.

“Our officers will remain in the area today while further enquiries are carried out.

“If you have any information that could assist the investigation then please speak to one of these officers."

The Northern Echo:

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The incident has shocked people who live in the area.

One resident said: "A car pulled up outside and then an ambulance came.

"Then there was two or three police cars and the air ambulance flew over.

"Then two more police cars came after that.

"A man was taken out of the house and put into the police car. He was being arrested. A van came to get him.

"Then out of the same van they bought some black plastic bags which I am guessing were for evidence."

Alternatively, people can call 101 quoting incident number 307 of February 27, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.