Gateshead ammonia spray death: Third murder charge

Andy Foster's family said he was a "kind and funny boy who was so loved"

A third man has been charged with the murder of a 26-year-old who died after being sprayed with a substance thought to be ammonia.

Andy Foster was attacked at his home in Eighton Terrace, Wrekenton, Gateshead, on 20 August and died in hospital.

Detectives previously said two people had knocked on his front door, sprayed the substance at him and fled.

Josh Craig Hawthorn, 21, of Ashfield, Jarrow, is due to appear before magistrates on Saturday.

Two 32-year-old men previously charged with murder, Kenneth Fawcett, of North Shields, and John Wandless, of no fixed address, have been remanded in custody ahead of a trial date set for early 2024.

'Investigation not over'

The latest charge comes as four other people were arrested in connection with the investigation during the week.

A 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit robbery and three women - aged 26, 34 and 37 - were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

They have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Mr Foster was injured at about 23:00 BST on 20 August, Northumbria Police said

Mr Foster was described by his loved ones as "a kind and funny boy", who was "so loved by his family and many friends".

Det Insp Tam Fowler, of Northumbria Police, who is leading the investigation said: "We would like to thank members of the public for their continued support and cooperation throughout our investigation.

"I hope the arrests and charges this week send a strong message that our investigation is far from over."

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses.