A TEENAGER was arrested today by police investigating the death of a man in an early hours' street disturbance.

Detectives launched a murder inquiry after the victim died shortly after arrival at hospital.

Police were called to a report of a disturbance involving two men in Beechbrooke, in the Ryhope area of Sunderland, shortly after 3.30am.

On arrival at the scene a badly injured man was found to have been assaulted.

He was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital, where he was confirmed dead at 4.40am.

Detectives attempting to establish the exact circumstances of the incident have appealed for information from people in the area.

Beechbrooke, including part of the approach road to Ryhope and Cherry Knowle hospitals, was cordoned off, as scenes of crime officers carried out a forensic examination in the vicinity.

Local people were warned that there may be some disruption getting into and out of their homes and police have asked them to be patient.

The man leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Mick Paterson, urged anyone in the area with information about the incident to come forward.

"I'm interested in hearing from anyone who may have been in Beechbrooke and the surrounding area of Ryhope at around 3.30am today, such as those returning home following a night out, who may have witnessed this assault or seen a disturbance.

"Any nearby residents who may have heard a disturbance outside their homes should also get in touch."

The identity, age or any other details about the dead man, have yet to be revealed by police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (08456) 043043.

* A 17-year-old youth was arrested in connection with the incident this morning and was said to have been taken into custody.