Stockton murder probe latest as woman remains in custody

A murder investigation was launched on Tuesday (March 31) after a man was found dead inside a home on Church Road shortly before 7am. 

A 57-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of murder and taken into custody to be questioned, Cleveland Police confirmed yesterday. 

Officers remained at the scene throughout Tuesday, where a large blue forensic tent had been erected on the pavement while white-suited investigators probed the flat. 

Now, the force has confirmed that the woman remains in custody – with a spokesperson adding that the victim was a 74-year-old man.

A murder investigation on Church Road in Stockton (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

The man’s family has been contacted and are being supported by special trained officers.

A cordon was erected at the scene outside Trio Hair Lounge on Tuesday after paramedics found the man dead inside the home. 

A large police van was parked directly outside the scene beside a smaller crime scene investigation van, with white-suited investigators seen going in and out of the home. 

Residents and nearby businesses recalled waking up to see the 999 activity outside, with Kevin Bowler, from Roundabout Kitchen, describing it as a shock.

The 69-year-old said: “They were here at 7.50am when I got here but people had thought it was before 7am this morning. They didn’t cordon it off like it is now until about 9am. 

A murder investigation on Church Road in Stockton (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

“The tent didn’t go up outside until after 12pm. The ambulance was there when I got here this morning, it was parked on the pavement. 

“Thankfully we don’t normally get any activity [like this] around here. It was a shock.”

Detective Chief Inspector Daryll Tomlinson, from the force’s homicide and major enquiry team yesterday appealed to anyone with information to get in touch.

He said: “This also applies to anyone who may have dash cam or doorbell footage that could aid the investigation.

“There will be a visible policing presence in the area, and I’d encourage anyone who is concerned or holds information to please speak to them.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or visit the website quoting reference number 059410.

Information can be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800555111.