Two men charged with murder in Gateshead as alleged victim named

Emergency services were called to a grassy area off Shipcote Lane at 6.10am on Sunday morning after a body was found. 

The man was located by officers with injuries consistent with having been assaulted - and was sadly confirmed dead at the scene. 

A murder investigation was then launched by Northumbria Police following the "unexplained" death, with the force now naming the alleged victim as 54-year-old Neil Selkirk. 

Police in Gateshead following the discovery of a body (Image: Picture: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Meanwhile, Anthony O’Donnell, 39, of no fixed abode and Craig Curry, 33, of no fixed abode, have both been charged with murder.

They are due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (August 27).

Pictures from the scene over the weekend showed how police erected a forensic tent in the middle of the woodland, behind Gateshead Central Library, and cordoned off the scene. 

54-year-old Neil Selkirk (Image: NORTHUMBRIA POLICE)

A police presence will remain at the scene on Tuesday as enquiries continue. 

The force said: "From the outset, Neil has been at the forefront of our minds and we've been absolutely committed to ensuring those responsible for his death are brought to justice.

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"Our thoughts remain with his family and friends at this awful time.

"A big thanks to the local community for your ongoing cooperation and patience – and we'd ask that everyone respects the ongoing legal proceedings.

"An increased police presence remains at the scene today as we carry out further enquiries."