Forensic teams descended on a Stockton street today amid an ongoing murder investigation, police have confirmed. 

Detectives and crime scene investigations units were seen at a flat on Bowron Road, just off Hills Drive, in Stockton throughout the day (Saturday, September 21). 

This follows the stabbing of "doting dad" Lewis Bell, on Hills Drive, in the early hours of Thursday morning (September 19). Mr Bell, 26, died at the scene. 

Cleveland Police were called to Hills Drive at about 12.30am on Thursday, where a forensic tent was erected close to a property, as the area was taped off. 

Five people who were arrested on suspicion of murder have been bailed.

Today, CSI teams in white suits were seen going in and out of a property with a badly damaged front door, on Bowron Street.

Neighbours said a cordon was put in place around 8.30 am today, with uniformed officers, forensic investigators, and detectives working at the scene. 

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: "We can confirm that the police presence in Bowron Street earlier today (Saturday) was in connection with ongoing enquiries into the death of Lewis Bell earlier this week." 

The force renewed their calls for witnessed, saying: "Any witnesses to the incident are asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference number 180509.

"Anyone with footage can upload it here: https://orlo.uk/BNCY1

"Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at https://orlo.uk/2QUMq or by calling 0800 555 111."

In a tribute to his son on Friday, heartbroken dad Martin Bell said: "He was loved massively and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

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“He was a loving and doting dad, son, brother, cousin and friend to many.

“As a family we are devastated.”

The investigation into his killing continues.