Teenager charged with murder of Ross Connelly in Wheatley Hill

The 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court this afternoon charged with the murder of Ross Connelly.

He did not enter a plea and was remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday, June 21.

Read more: Aldi store in Newcastle set to move to West Denton Retail Park

Officers were called on the morning of May 1 following the discovery of a man’s body at a property in Alexandra Terrace, Wheatley Hill.

He was later identified as 46-year-old Ross Connelly, a much-loved father and grandfather from Shotton Colliery.

An investigation, run by detectives from Durham Constabulary’s Major Crime Team, has resulted in nine other people being arrested in connection with the incident – five men aged 19, 29, 34, 40, and 58, two women aged 18, a woman aged 45, and a 16-year-old boy. 

They have all been interviewed by officers and released on bail while further enquiries are carried out.

Read next:

• Police called after urban explorers get into Wet n Wild North Shields
• Blyth officers mauled by dog while being punched by man during arrest
• Woman helps man and dog keep warm in Darlington during middle of night

We have a new ‘flash sale’ running from today until the end of the month on Wednesday, May 31.

You can spend £2 for 2 months (monthly) or save 20% and pay £63.20 annually. Find out more here

Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have any information which could assist the investigation, or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area surrounding the incident.

To help call Durham Constabulary on 101, or use the 101 Live Chat facility on the website at www.durham.police.uk

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.