Gateshead school pays tribute to Tomasz Oleszac, 14, after alleged knife attack
A school has issued a statement after a 14-year-old student died in a suspected stabbing in Gateshead.
Brendan Robson, Headteacher at Cardinal Hume Catholic School, says what has happened is "devastating."
Tomasz Oleszak died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday morning after an alleged assault near Whitehills Nature Park in Gateshead on Monday.
A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and a 13-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both remain in custody.
Mr Robson, issuing a statement on behalf of the school, said: "We are devastated to hear of this tragic incident involving one of our students.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time.
"As a school we are doing all we can to support our students and everyone in our community who is affected."
He added: "As a much loved and treasured pupil, Tomasz was a dedicated and committed young man who was the life and soul of his friendship group.
"Tomasz was charismatic and engaging, always displaying a great sense of humour.
"He was a loyal friend who others could turn to. As a talented footballer and wonderful team player he has been described by his friends as 'someone you’d always want to have on your team'. The staff will remember his warmth, energy and positive personality."
Northumbria Police said in a statement Tomasz had suffered an injury consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.
He was taken to hospital where he died on Tuesday 4 October.
Flowers, balloons and teddy tributes have been left at the scene and specialist police officers are still investigating in the area.
Tomasz's family are continuing to be supported by specially-trained officers.
Northumbria Police chief, Helen Barron, warned people against speculating details online and urged anyone with information to come forward.
"What might seem like an innocent comment or post on social media to you, could in reality disrupt an on-going investigation and cause further upset to the family of the victim," Ms Barron added.
"We would ask that if you did see something or have information in relation to what has happened, please come forward directly to officers."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20221003-0995.
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