Almost Â£500 raised for funeral of man shot by police in South Shields

James Wilson. Picture supplied by his family.

A gofundme page set up in memory of James Wilson has reached £483 in 48 hours.

The page aims to raise £1,000.

Flowers left following the death of James Wilson

The 24-year-old died in the early hours of Saturday after he was shot by armed Northumbria Police officers on Tuesday.

The fundraising page was set up by Natalie Ferriday.

She wrote: “As everyone who knew James will know, he was a kind amazing young man.

“Everyone’s friend who always had a smile on his face! This is a really tough time for his loved ones,

“I’m sure everyone’s kind words are giving them comfort. Out of respect for them and love for James I would appreciate if everyone could give what they can to help an amazing young man have the send off he deserves!

“RIP James you will be sadly missed by all that knew you xxx”

Well-wishers left tributes alongside their donations.

Kristie Henderson said: “RIP James, heart of gold and a pleasure to have known, taken far too soon!

“No one should be taken this way no matter what the situation, fly high matey you will be missed by many.”

Sue Curtis added: “My heart goes out to the family and friends. Good luck with the fundraising and may James RIP.”

Police had been called to Frenchmans Way, in Horsley Hill, South Shields, at around 1am on Tuesday to reports of a man in possession of a handgun.

An investigation was launched by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), who said a “non-police weapon” had been recovered from the scene, but have not yet confirmed details.

James, of Candlish Street, South Shields, was taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary where doctors operated to save his life.

James’ brother, Carl Wilson Jr, said the bullet went through James’ liver and came out the other side, also damaging his lungs.

He was later transferred to the city’s Freeman Hospital and was put into an induced coma by doctors. He also had a second operation.

IPCC Commissioner Carl Gumsley said: “Our thoughts are with James’ friends and family at this very difficult time.”