Cullercoats stabbing: Family pay tribute to Lee Santos

Image source, Northumbria Police

Image caption, Lee Santos was "a loving brother, dad and grandad".

The family of a 45-year-old man who died after being stabbed have paid tribute to him.

Lee Santos, from Wallsend, was found seriously injured in a flat in John Street, Cullercoats, North Tyneside, on Friday 23 December, where he died.

Mr Santos' injuries were "consistent with having been caused by a bladed article", police said.

A man has been charged with murder and remains in custody awaiting another court appearance.

'Loving brother'

In a statement, Mr Santos' family said they were "still processing the fact he is no longer with us".

"Lee was a loving brother, dad and grandad who still had so many things to look forward to in his life," they said.

"As a family, we would like to thank everyone for their support."

Det Insp Tam Fowler, of Northumbria Police, said: "Our thoughts continue to be with Lee's family at this devastating time and our specially-trained officers will continue to support them."

A 43-year-old man was charged with murder and appeared in court on 26 December. He is in custody awaiting his next appearance.

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