Adam Jenkins broke down in tears when he realised his sister's boyfriend SImon Birch - who he had stabbed following a Christmas Day row in 2021 - was dead and that he was facing murder charges.
Police bodycam footage shows the moment Northumbria Police officers told Jenkins that, rather than as previously when he was arrested on suspicion of assault, he was now under arrest on suspicion of murder. In the footage, he can be seen breaking down and asks: "He's dead?"
Jennkis was cleared of murder but found guilty of manslaughter over the incident, which saw him fatally stab much-loved father Mr Birch, 39, in the neck following a late-night row. CCTV footage seen in court showed how family members watched on in horror.
A jury found Jenkins guilty of manslaughter at Newcastle Crown Court and he has now been remanded in custody to face sentencing at a later date.
Paramedics battled in vain to save Mr Birch's life, but he was pronounced dead at the scene - outside of Jenkins' Newbottle home. And that's when officers broke the shocking news to the man they had already thrown in the back of a police van, Mr Birch was dead.
Police officers have said this is a stark reminder of the dangers of carrying a knife. Detective Superintendent Jane Fairlamb said: "This is another tragic case that highlights the real and irreversible consequences of carrying a knife.
"For this to happen on Christmas Day is especially poignant for Simon’s family – what should have been a time of celebration and togetherness ended in the most devastating of outcomes.
“Our thoughts remain with them as they attempt to come to terms with the events of the last 18 months, and while no outcome can remove the grief they are facing, I hope they can take some comfort knowing the person responsible for Simon’s death has been brought to justice."
Det Supt Fairlamb said she hoped the verdict sent a "strong and sobering message" about the dangers of knives. Anyone who wishes to share information about someone who may be carrying a knife or weapon is asked to tell police using the the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Nothumbria Police website or by calling 101.
In an emergency, or if a crime is taking place, always ring 999, while information can also be passed on anonymously using independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
