A man has been charged with murder following the death of a Sunderland woman.

Shortly before 7.15am on Tuesday, October 17, last year, police received a report from the ambulance service of concern for a woman at an address on Stockton Terrace in the Grangetown area.

Emergency services attended where the woman – 36-year-old Melissa Eastick – had suffered serious injuries consistent with an assault. She was sadly pronounced as deceased at the scene.

Melissa’s next of kin continue to be offered support by specially trained officers at this difficult time.

An investigation was immediately launched by the Major Investigation Team – with officers treating her death as murder.

Two men – aged 38 and 41 – were arrested on suspicion of murder and released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

Yesterday (Tuesday), the 41-year-old man, Stephen Todd, of Howick Park, Sunderland, was charged with murder. He is due to appear before South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court today.

Most read: 

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

The second man – aged 38 – was previously told he will face no further action.

Leading the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins from Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts remain with Melissa’s family and friends at this incredibly tragic time.

“Specialist officers continue to offer support to Melissa’s loved ones, and we would ask the public to avoid speculation both in the community and online which could jeopardise the ongoing proceedings.”