Man charged with murder of woman in Darlington
Leanne Park, 44, was found at a property in Parkgate on Wednesday
Last updated 27th Sep 2026
A man has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in Darlington.
Officers were called to an address in Parkgate at about 9.15pm on Wednesday (23 September).
Sadly, 44-year-old Leanne Park was pronounced dead at the scene.
Andrew Bell, of Darlington, has been charged with murder and remanded in police custody.
The 44-year-old will appear at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Monday (28 September).
A 27-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail.
An investigation is ongoing and crime scene investigators are continuing to work at the scene.
A police cordon is expected to remain in place for some time.
In a statement, Leanne's family said: “Leanne was just the best mam, nana, daughter, and friend we could wish for.
“She was loved by everyone and would do anything for anyone.
“She was the life and soul of the party and loved to dance.
“We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family.
“We are grateful for all the kind messages and the support since her death. We ask that everyone remembers her for the kind-hearted woman she was.”