Three further arrests have been made in connection with an ongoing murder investigation in Stockton.

Detectives and crime scene investigations units were seen at a flat on Bowron Road, just off Hills Drive, in Stockton on 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. 

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "Two men aged 19 and 25 have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

"They remain in police custody at this time."

A 17-year-old male has been charged with murder and is due to appear at Teesside Magistrates Court today, Monday 23rd September.

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN) A further five arrested in connection with the murder investigation last week remain on police bail.

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

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

“As a family we are devastated.”