Man dies following suspected ammonia assault in Gateshead

An investigation is underway after a man has died following an assault in Gateshead.

Northumbria Police said 26-year-old Andy Foster suffered life-threatening injuries after suspected ammonia was sprayed in his face.

He was taken to hospital but has since died.

Police said two offenders had approached an address on Eighton Terrace in Wrekenton on Sunday 20 August, shortly after 11pm.

Officers have said that the when the offenders knocked on the front door, the victim opened the door, and had been sprayed with suspected ammonia.

A murder investigation had been launched following the incident.

A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He has been released under investigation, pending further inquiries.

Detective Inspector Tam Fowler, of Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what has happened and how Andy has ultimately lost his life.

“While our investigation is at an early stage, it is believed that those involved are known to each other and there is no wider risk to the public.

"At this time, I am now appealing to the public for their help – and would urge any further witnesses or anyone with information to come forward to police as soon as possible."

Mr Foster's next of kin are being supported by specially-trained officers.

Anyone with information is asked to speak with an officer on duty, use the ‘Tell Us Something’ page on the Northumbria Police website, or call 101 quoting reference number: NP-20230820-1369.

Members of the public can also report information anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.

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