Seven teenagers charged with murder of 18-year-old stabbed to death in Tyne and Wear

Seven teenagers aged between 14 and 17 have been charged with murder after an 18-year-old was stabbed to death.

Jack Woodley, from County Durham, was found seriously injured near the Britannia Inn, Houghton-le-Spring, Tyne and Wear, at around 9.30pm on Saturday.

The teenager, who had recently moved to Sunderland, died from his injuries in hospital the next day.

Northumbria Police said nine teenagers were arrested on suspicion of wounding and that seven have been charged with murder.

They were due to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

A girl and a boy, both aged 15, have been released under investigation.

Detective Inspector Joanne Brooks, leading the investigation, urged the public not to identify those charged online.

She said: “Our thoughts remain with Jack’s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people that as all seven of those charged are under the age of 18, they are legally entitled to anonymity and must not be named or identified in connection with this incident.

“I would urge people to not speculate or name them online as this could severely impact our investigation, which remains ongoing.

“Our enquiries will continue and I would ask anyone who witnessed the incident or has information, who has not yet come forward, to pick up the phone and contact police or Crimestoppers.

“Any information, no matter how insignificant you may feel it is, could prove crucial to this investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log NP-20211016-1193 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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