A heartbroken family has paid tribute to their son and father who tragically died after being fatally injured in a suspected stabbing, saying "Gary was loved".
Gary Belfield, from the Manchester area, passed away on Saturday (April 27) following an alleged attack at a property on Elliott Drive in Felling, Gateshead.
The 40-year-old suffered serious injuries consistent with having been caused by a bladed article and died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency responders.
Today (Wednesday), Gary’s family released a picture and shared some heartfelt words in his memory.
They said: “He was a caring friendly person who was popular in his hometown. He never looked for or got into trouble.
“As a family, we are shocked and devastated at what has happened. We are trying to process the events of the last four days and grieve our loss.”
Gary’s family continue to be supported by specially-trained officers at this time.
Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said: “Our thoughts remain with Gary’s family and loved ones who have all shown incredible strength in the face of such tragedy.
“A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gary’s death remains ongoing, and we are committed to delivering answers and bringing anyone involved to justice.”
A second man, aged in his 20s, was also found seriously injured in the property. He has since been discharged from hospital.
The Force’s Major Incident Team (MIT) has made eight arrests as part of their ongoing investigation, with a further male – aged 17 – arrested on suspicion of murder.
He remains in police custody along with a female – aged 15 – arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.
A male – aged 17 – has been charged with attempted murder and has been remanded in custody following an appearance at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday).
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Two males and three females, aged between 21 and 51, have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.
Anyone with information can contact police via the ‘Report’ page of Northumbria Police’s website or by calling 101, quoting reference NP-20240427-1086.
Members of the public can also provide information and submit materials in connection with this investigation by visiting Northumbria Police’s dedicated Major Incident Public Portal online: Public Portal (Public Portal (mipp.police.uk))
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