A man is facing a life sentence for murder after admitting to the fatal stabbing of a young father of twins.
Gavin Train, was due to stand trial for the killing of Bradley Tams in Slatyford, Newcastle, but changed his plea to guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.
Lewis Allison, 24, of Roundhill Avenue, Blakelaw, and Train's mother Andrea Train, 49, of Rothay Place, Newcastle, were also charged in connection with Bradley’s death. They both pleaded guilty to charges of violent disorder.
Just before midnight on December 6 last year, police responded to a report of an assault on Cartmel Green in Slatyford.
Mr Tams, 23, was found to have serious injuries consistent with having been stabbed and died at the scene.
An investigation was launched by the Force’s Major Investigation Team with officers piecing together exactly what happened.
It was discovered that earlier the same evening, Mr Tams travelled to the address by taxi and was followed by Gavin Train.
Train confronted Mr Tams about a previous dispute before a physical and verbal altercation ensued.
Mr Tams fled the scene into a neighbouring block of flats after suffering a single wound to his side, but died a short time later despite the efforts of emergency responders.
Within hours, Train was arrested and initially denied his involvement in Mr Tams' death.
Train, 24, of Rothay Place, Newcastle, was subsequently charged with murder and today (June 7) pleaded guilty.
All three have been remanded in custody and are due to be sentenced next month.
Detective Chief Inspector Katie Smith, from Northumbria Police, led the investigation and has condemned the senseless violence which resulted in Bradley’s death.
She said: “First and foremost, I would like to thank Bradley’s family and loved ones for the incredible strength they have shown over the last six months since his tragic passing.
“Bradley was a beloved son, brother and father, and there is absolutely no justification for the course of events which led to his death.
“Our thoughts very much continue to be with them all, and I am pleased we have been able to bring the person responsible for his death to justice.”
Det Ch Insp Smith added: “This case serves as yet another reminder that violence destroys lives, and there is no place whatsoever for it in our communities.
“As a Force, we remain steadfast in our resolve to reduce this type of offending through a range of tactics.
“The decision to carry a weapon that night is the reason Bradley is no longer with us, and we have a very simple message to those who carry knives and choose to involve themselves in violence.
“Please think again – not only for your sake but for your family and loved ones too.”
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Anyone who has information about someone carrying a weapon is encouraged to contact Northumbria Police via the ‘Report’ section on the website or by calling 101.
In an emergency always dial 999.
People can also share information anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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