54-year-old Neil Selkirk, who sustained injuries consistent with having been assaulted(Image: Northumbria Police)

Two men charged with murder of 54-year-old as alleged Gateshead victim is named

Two men will appear at South Tyneside Magistrates' Court today charged with murder

by · ChronicleLive

Two men have been charged with murder after a body was discovered in a Gateshead park.

Police descended on a grassy area off Shipcote Lane at 6.10am on Sunday after concerns were raised for the welfare of a man. Officers found the body of Neil Selkirk, who had sustained injuries consistent with having been assaulted. Sadly, the 54-year-old was confirmed dead at the scene.

A murder investigation was immediately launched in connection with Neil’s death, and two arrests were made near to the scene. Anthony O’Donnell, 39, of no fixed address and Craig Curry, 33, of no fixed address, have both been charged with murder in connection with Neil's death and are due to appear before magistrates in South Tyneside today (Tuesday).

Detective Inspector Chris Deavin, of Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team (MIT), said: “This is an incredibly sad outcome and our thoughts remain with Neil’s family and friends at this devastating time. From the outset, Neil has been at the forefront of our minds and we have been absolutely committed to ensuring those responsible for his death are identified and convicted of their crimes.

Police were called to Shipcote Lane(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

“Two suspects are now due to appear before the courts charged with murder. As ever, I’d like to thank the public for their ongoing cooperation and patience – and ask that everyone respects the ongoing legal proceedings. There is absolutely no place for violence in our communities, and as a Force, we are prepared to use every tactic available to us in order to ensure the swift delivery of justice.”

An increased police presence remains at the scene today as officers carry out further inquiries. Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to contact police by sending a direct message, using the live chat function on the force website or by visiting here quoting reference NP-20240825-0241.

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