No one will be charged over the death of loving dad Richie Kilbourne.
The 36-year-old's body was found dead in his North Shields home in September 2021.
Police probing the tragedy arrested two people as part of their investigation.
But now Richie's heartbroken family has been told neither will be charged.
The news has come as a devastating blow to Richie's loved ones who have spent more than 18 months desperately waiting for answers about what happened to him.
Today his sister, Sarah Hoggarth, has told the Chronicle her family will not give up their search for the truth.
And Richie's loved one's have now asked the Crown Prosecution Service to review the decision not to bring charges.
Sarah Hoggarth said: "It's devastating really because that's the only thing that we had.
"We just want answers. If someone was charged it would be a bit of justice for him. It's devastated our whole family because we are not getting any closure."
Richie was a devoted dad who became a proud grandad at a young age. While struggling with drink and alcohol problems, he spent much of his adult life in jail.
However, his three daughters said he was always there for them and was like a best friend as well as a father.
Richie’s body was found at his flat, on Howdon Road, on the morning of September 3 2021.
His death was initially treated as "unexplained".
A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug supply and a woman was arrested in connection with a report of an assault on Richie, which was unconnected to his death.
Both were released under investigation, but Richie's family were told last week they will face no further action.
The Chronicle understands discussions between the police and the CPS are ongoing.
Sarah, 35, added: "We know he didn't do it himself. He had everything to live for. We just want to know how he died.
"We are fighting it all the way. We won't stop until we get the truth. We want answers and we want my brother to be resting.
"I can't grieve yet. I haven't even started to grieve."
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