A MURDER inquiry is under way following the death of a father-of-seven outside his home.

Police were called to a disturbance in Raleigh Road, Norton, Teesside, at 10pm on Sunday, where they found Mark Anthony Richardson unconscious.

The 39-year-old had been stabbed. He was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees but died soon afterwards.

Police said they received reports of a crowd milling about in the area prior to the incident. Two other men were also injured.

One, a 17-year-old, was stabbed in the hand. He is still in hospital after undergoing an operation.

The third man, 42, suffered facial injuries and also remains in hospital, where he is helping police with their inquiries.

Two more men, a 41-year-old and a 33-year-old, are also helping police.

It is believed that before Mr Richardson's death there were windows smashed in a nearby house and cars damaged. Last night, police were unable to confirm if the incidents were related to the killing.

Detective Inspector Karnail Dulku, who is leading the inquiry, said: "Our inquiries are at a very early stage and we do not know why the incident took place or why Mr Richardson was killed.

"There may have been a fight, but our inquiries are continuing. At this stage we are keeping an open mind."

A knife has been recovered, but as yet it is not clear whether it is the murder weapon. Police are continuing to look for a sharp- bladed instrument.

The area around the murder scene was cordoned off yesterday as officers carried out house-to-house inquiries.

One neighbour, said: "My heart goes out to those kiddies who are now left without a dad.

"He was a nice lad who always smiled and waved and passed the time of day with you.

"Around here everybody knows everybody else and it has been a shock."

Det Insp Dulku said: "Please do not assume we have all the information we need.

"I would ask anyone who may have seen anything, or who was in the area, to call us confidentially on (01642) 302390.