POLICE have confirmed the identities of a man and woman found dead in a house.

Concern was raised about a woman in Sunderland, at 8.30pm last Thursday.

On arrival at an address on Shrewsbury Crescent, the bodies of two people were found by police inside the property.

They were today named as Alan Matthew Martin, 53, of Gardiner Square, Sunderland, and 49-year-old Kay Michelle Martin, of Shrewsbury Crescent.

The pair were married.

Forensic teams gathered evidence at the address, in the Plains Farm area, over the weekend, with inquiries carried out to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Police said they are treating the death of Mrs Martin as a suspected murder, but there is not believed to be any third-party involvement into the death of Mr Martin.

Detectives investigating the case are not looking for anyone else in connection with Mrs Martin’s murder and a report will now be prepared for the coroner.

Detective Chief Inspector Phil Bond, of Northumbria Police, said: “This is a tragic case which has resulted in the deaths of Alan Martin and Kay Martin.

“I would like to pass on our sincere condolences to the family and specialist officers are on hand to offer any support they need.

“A report will now be prepared for the coroner.

“I know what impact incidents such as this can have for any community.

“I would like to thank residents living in the area for their patience and co-operation, and to offer reassurance that this was an isolated incident.

“There is no wider threat to the public.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank members of the public, who have come forward to assist police since Thursday evening.

“Anybody with any concerns is encouraged to speak to a nearby officer.”

  • Anyone with information surrounding the deaths is asked to contact 101, quoting reference 1071 200918, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555 111.