Family pays tribute to man killed in suspected Shildon assault
Jeff Blair, 55, died after suffering serious injuries in Dent Street
The family of Jeff Blair, who died following a suspected assault in Shildon, have paid tribute to the 55-year-old, describing him as a much-loved son, brother, father, partner, uncle, and friend.
The incident occurred shortly after 1 pm on 10th March on Dent Street, and Blair sustained serious injuries before being transported to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.
In a statement, his family expressed their devastation at losing Blair under such circumstances and spoke of his ability to bring humour and laughter to any situation.
The family said: “His ability to apply humour and laughter to any situation and lighten the mood will be irreplaceable to our family.
“We are devastated to lose Jeff in such tragic circumstances, and he will be forever missed and remembered always, with much love and affection.”
The family is being supported by specialist family liaison officers and have requested privacy during their time of grief.
A 49-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the incident and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
A cordon is still in place while investigators work at the scene.
Durham Constabulary has asked anyone with information regarding the incident to call 101, quoting incident reference 209 of 10th March.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org