A man was found dead in Jesmond in the early hours of Wednesday morning - and Northumbria Police have now launched an investigation into what officers have called the "unexplained" death.
Police were called to the scene - a field off Highbury in the Newcastle suburb - by the ambulance service following reports of "concern" for a man's welfare shortly after midnight. The emergency services attended, but the man's death was confirmed at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.
The police said the force was currently treating the man’s death as unexplained. A full investigation has been launched, involving a substantial police presence in the area. A cordon remains in place.
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Superintendent Sharon Chatterton of Northumbria Police, said: "This is clearly an incredibly difficult time for the man’s family and our thoughts are with them. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man’s death is at a very early stage and we are keeping an open mind as to what may have occurred.
"Those enquiries are very much ongoing and a considerable police presence remains in the area as officers carry out a range of enquiries at the scene."
Supt Chatterton encouraged members of the public who may have concerns or information that could assist the investigation to speak to an officer in the area or otherwise contact the police immediately.
She added: “I would also ask everyone to avoid any speculation – both online and in the wider community – that could jeopardise the investigation.”
Anyone with information can contact Northumbria Police via the 'Tell Us Something' page of the force website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230530-1450.
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