Dad and son victims pictured as woman arrested on suspicion of murder

18 March 2024 , 14:06

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Peter Cooke junior died at 36 (Image: Cleveland Police)

A father and son found dead in a house on Friday night have been named today.

Police launched a murder investigation after the pair - both named Peter Cooke - were discovered lifeless at the address in Hartlepool, County Durham at around 11.40pm. Officers remained outside the property through the weekend and today, Cleveland Police confirmed the identity of the two victims.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Father and son, both named Peter Cooke, aged 36 and 68, sadly died at a property on Eaglesfield Road in the town. The family of the men have asked for privacy at this difficult time. Specially trained officers continue to support the family as an investigation continues into their deaths. Police are carrying out high visibility reassurance patrols in the area. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 047584."

Peter Cooke, 68, was found died alongside his son (Cleveland Police)

A 39-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of murder remains on police bail whilst enquiries continue. Tributes, including from strangers, to the dad and son have been shared online. One Facebook post reads: "So sad condolences to the family RIP." Another reads: "So sad thinking of the family at this sad time."

Speaking on the initial investigation, a statement from Cleveland Police read: "Police were called to a property on Eaglesfield Road in Hartlepool around 11:40pm on Friday 15 March, where sadly the bodies of two males were located. Officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Family members of the men have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. Our thoughts remain with them at this extremely difficult time. A woman aged in her thirties has been arrested on suspicion of murder and has now been bailed whilst enquiries continue. Police are carrying out high visibility reassurance patrols in the area and these will continue over the coming days Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 047584."

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A North East Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We received a call at 11.36pm to a serious incident at a private property on Eaglesfield Road in Hartlepool. Police also attended the scene. We sent a duty officer, a clinical team leader and an emergency ambulance crew. All NEAS resources stood down on scene."

Bradley Jolly