Man killed in Shildon incident named as family pay tribute

Jeff Blair died after being attacked on Dent Street shortly after 1pm on Tuesday (March 10).

He suffered serious injuries and was taken to James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough, but sadly died a short time later. A man was last night arrested on suspicion of his murder and remains in custody at this time, police said.

In a statement, his family said: “Jeff was a much-loved son, brother, father, partner, uncle, and good friend to many.

“His ability to apply humour and laughter to any situation and lighten the mood will be irreplaceable to our family.

Jeff Blair, 55, died following a suspected assault in Dent Street (Image: DURHAM POLICE)

“We are devastated to lose Jeff in such tragic circumstances, and he will be forever missed and remembered always, with much love and affection.”

Durham Police said his family is being supported by specialist family liaison officers and they have asked for privacy while they grieve.

A 49-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and has been taken into police custody where he remains.

Dent Street remained taped with white-suited forensic officers seen working at the scene today.

Police at the scene on Wednesday (March 11). (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Police are expected to remain in the area for some time, and say they are treating the attack as an isolated incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Alderson, who is leading the investigation, previously said: “We understand that this incident will have caused shock to the community, and our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.

“While there will be an increased police presence in the area as we carry out our enquiries, I can reassure the community of Shildon that we believe this to be an isolated incident.

“I’d like to thank residents for their support and co-operation while our investigation is carried out.

“A team of officers are currently working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident who has not yet spoken to us.”

On Tuesday residents told how the incident unfolded, and police descended on the street.

Susan Weston came home from the doctors and found her street full of police. The 56-year-old said: “What I saw out the front was just awful. There was blood. I didn’t want to look.

“Seeing that out the front of my house, I felt sick. I felt shaky.”

Another man said: “You couldn’t move around here for police.

“The air ambulance came over and people were running up and down getting things like gauze. Someone was lifted into the ambulance.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident reference 209 of March 10, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.