Two men remain in custody as murder inquiry into death of Brandon Lee in South Shields flat enters fourth day

Brandon Lee, of Wansbeck Road in Jarrow, was declared dead inside a flat in Victoria Road in South Shields after the emergency services were called to a report of concern for a man shortly before 4am on Tuesday, May 12.

Paramedics and police had been called to the block and found him unresponsive after he suffered injuries consistent with a bladed article.

A 23-year-old man, who was found inside the Laygate home, was arrested on suspicion of murder and he remains in police custody today, Friday, May 15, as he helps officers with their inquiries.

On Thursday, May 14, detectives confirmed a second man, aged 25 and from South Shields, had also been arrested on suspicion of murder and is also still in custody today.

Detective Chief Inspector Shelley Hudson, the senior investigating officer on the case, has previously said: “We would like to reiterate that we are treating this as an isolated incident and we believe those involved are known to each and that there is no wider risk to the public.”

She has thanked those who have already come forward with information and urged anyone who saw anything

A large cordon was thrown around the block of flats as inquiries got underway, with forensic officers combing the grounds of the flats, which are on the corner of Bedford Avenue and St Mark’s Way, the pathways nearby and the main street outside were checked for evidence.

A police presence remained at the scene after the taped was taken down on Wednesday, with floral tributes and balloons decorated with Brandon’s name left in tribute at the scene.

Among the messages left was one which said: “You will always be remembered and loved forever and never ever forgotten.”

Anyone who has have information that may assist the investigation as asked to ring 101 or use the ‘Tell us Something’ page of the force’s website quoting reference number 103 120520.

Alternatively, people can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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