Northumbria Police have confirmed that 52-year-old Peter Graham died following an assault in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, and a local man has now been charged with his murder. The incident took place inside a home on Hastings Street in the Hendon area on the morning of February 17, 2026.
Emergency services arrived at the property shortly before 7:15 AM after receiving a report of a serious assault from the ambulance service. Although medical staff tried to save his life at the scene, Mr Graham was pronounced dead a short time later due to his injuries.
Officers arrested 32-year-old Gary Howe, who also lives on Hastings Street, in connection with the death. He has been charged with murder, sexual assault by touching, and assaulting an emergency worker.
Gary Howe appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on February 20, 2026, and was kept in custody. He is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court for a further hearing on February 24, 2026.
Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr is leading the investigation and has asked the public not to guess about the case online while the legal process moves forward. Residents in the area should expect to see more officers in the street while the police finish their door-to-door checks and forensic work.
