A killer who stabbed a much-loved dad to death has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars.
Andrew Somerville killed Tony Nichol in a block of flats in Kenton, Newcastle, when an altercation broke out.
Somerville, 42, grabbed a knife from within the address before fatally wounding Mr Nichol.
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Emergency services attended and found the 36-year-old with serious injuries, he was rushed to hospital but sadly later died of his injuries.
Somerville, of Columbia Grange, Newcastle, was arrested a short time after the incident and questioned by detectives where he denied the allegation of murder.
The case was sent to trial at Newcastle Crown Court last month where a jury found him guilty of manslaughter.
And yesterday (July 8) he was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment.
Detective Chief Inspector Joanne Brooks, who led the investigation, has welcomed the sentence.
Det Chief Insp Brooks said: “This has been a most tragic case and my thoughts remain with Tony’s family and all of his loved ones during what has been a devastating time for them.
"I want to commend their bravery throughout this investigation and subsequent court proceedings and thank them for their support and cooperation.”
She added: “When Somerville made the decision to pick up a knife, he destroyed more than just one life. He has robbed Tony of a future and Tony’s family of one with him in it.
“Somerville now starts a long sentence behind bars – giving him plenty of time to consider the devastating impact of his actions.
“I sincerely hope this acts as a reminder to everyone that no one wins where violence is concerned and the consequences of carrying a knife are severe.”
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