Detectives are investigating a serious attack in Hartlepool that has left a 57-year-old man with life-threatening head injuries. The incident took place outside an address on St Paul’s Road on the afternoon of Friday 24 July, police have confirmed.
Specialist team leading inquiry
Cleveland Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET) is carrying out enquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding the assault. The injured man was taken to James Cook University Hospital where he remains in a critical condition. Specialist officers are supporting his family.
“This is a serious incident which has left a man with life-threatening injuries, and our thoughts remain with his family, who are being supported by specially trained officers.”
A 37-year-old man was arrested in connection with the case, interviewed and subsequently bailed with conditions while investigations continue. Detective Chief Inspector John Bonner said officers are following multiple lines of inquiry and appealed directly to members of the public for information.
What police are asking the public to do
Officers are particularly keen to hear from:
- Anyone who witnessed the incident or was in the St Paul’s Road area on the afternoon of 24 July.
- Motorists who were driving nearby and may have dash-cam footage.
- People who may have taken mobile phone photos or video that could assist the investigation.
- Anyone who knows either the injured man or the person arrested and can provide information on their movements or interactions prior to the assault.
DCI Bonner said the investigation was ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information to make contact promptly.
How to share information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Cleveland Police | Call 101, quoting reference SE26146385 |
| Crimestoppers | Anonymous calls to 0800 555111 or via their website |
The force has not released further details about the circumstances of the assault or the identities of those involved. As HMET continues to gather evidence, detectives have reiterated the importance of any small piece of information — from dash-cam clips to short witness accounts — in piecing together what happened that afternoon.
Residents in the immediate area may expect increased police presence while enquiries proceed. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101 with the reference SE26146385, or to pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
