Body recovered from the River Tyne in searches for missing man
Officers investigating an incident on the Redheugh Bridge in Gateshead, where a man entered the water, have sadly recovered a body.
Shortly before 10pm on Friday, April 10, police received a report of a man – later identified as 39-year-old Dean Larvin - entering the River Tyne from the Redheugh Bridge.
It was first reported that a group of people had been involved in an altercation prior to a man entering the water.
Enquiries have since established that Dean had left the scene of the altercation before entering the water a short time later.
On Saturday, May 2, emergency services were called to Derwenthaugh Marina in Blaydon following a report of a body being discovered in the water.
Officers can sadly confirm today (Friday) that the body recovered has been formally identified as Dean.
Dean’s family have been informed and continue to be supported by officers, and we would ask that their privacy is respected at this time.
In a heartfelt tribute to Dean, they said: “Dean was a dearly loved son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend.
“He had the kindest heart, the most amazing soul, and a happy, bubbly personality that lit up every room.
“He doted on each and every one of his family members and was loved so very much by all of his nieces and nephews.
“Dean always put others before himself and, in the past, even helped save the lives of others — “if you couldn’t walk, he would carry you.”
“We were all so proud of him and will miss him more than words can say.
“Our family would like to thank everyone for their condolences and kind words during this heartbreaking time and especially thank the person who found Dean for their compassion and help. We kindly ask for privacy as we grieve this devastating loss.
“A huge thanks to the marine search and rescue, emergency services, and family liaison officers that have offered us support every step of the way.”
Detective Inspector Ashley Loader, of Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts are with Dean’s family and loved ones following this tragic outcome.
“Officers will continue to support them, and we would ask that their privacy is respected during this extremely difficult time.
“I’d like to thank our officers and partner agencies for their support in our search for Dean. Your support does not go unnoticed.”
As part of the initial stages of the investigation, a 48-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the incident. She has since been released on police bail.