Brandon Lee death: Ross Miller jailed for South Shields murder

Brandon Lee suffered more than 100 injuries when he was murdered on 12 May

A man who murdered his friend with a machete has been jailed for a minimum of 19 years.

Brandon Lee, from Jarrow, suffered more than 100 injuries when he was attacked by Ross Miller at Miller's home in South Shields on 12 May.

Northumbria Police said it was a "brutal killing" and Mr Lee's mother said she was "absolutely heartbroken".

Miller, 23, of Victoria Road, was found guilty at Newcastle Crown Court of murder and handed a life sentence.

Ross Miller was called a dangerous individual by police

Speaking after the sentencing, Det Sgt Ewan Campbell said: "These were two friends who were seen in each other's company in the hours prior to the incident - but a disagreement inside Miller's flat then spiralled and the most horrific act of violence ensued.

"Brandon was found with multiple stab wounds and up to 100 sharp injuries, while Miller had also suffered severed tendons and ligaments in both hands.

"Inside the flat, officers also found a number of knives - including the machete which was used by Miller to inflict the fatal and exhaustive blows that ended Brandon's life.

"Miller is clearly a dangerous individual who inflicted horrific injuries to Brandon during a prolonged and vicious attack."

Mr Lee's mother Nicola said: "I am absolutely heartbroken. He is going to be a massive miss to the whole family."

Garry Miller, 26, of Beach Road in South Shields, had also been charged with murder but jurors were ordered to find him not guilty after no evidence was offered.