POLICE have launched a murder investigation after the death of a man found in the street with a chest wound.

Officers believe he was attacked in his home, then made his way outside.

Ambulance crews found him lying on the pavement in Tower Street West, Hendon, Sunderland, at 2.35am this morning.

They alerted police and took the 46-year-old to Sunderland Royal Hospital, where he died at 4am.

Police have now launched a murder investigation and are appealing for witnesses.

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Bent, who is leading the investigation, said: "This investigation is at an early stage, however it appears that the victim was attacked in his home on Tower Street West before making his way onto the street where he was seen by a passer-by who phoned for an ambulance.

"Earlier in the night police had received a number of calls about shouting and swearing being heard on Tower Street West and a window being broken.

"I would like to hear from anybody who was in the area around Tower Street West in the early hours of this morning and who may have information about what took place to contact police."

A number of people have been arrested in connection with the investigation and are helping police with their enquiries.

Sunderland Area Commander Chief Superintendent Dave Pryer said: "We are very aware of the impact this type of offence can have upon the community.

"A number of actions have been taken to provide reassurance. Local officers within the Sunderland East Neighbourhood Team have been providing high visibility patrols, ensuring they are both visible and accessible to the public. This will continue."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043 043 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.