Two teenagers accused of murdering 23-year-old Daniel Ambler at a petrol station in Seaham can now be identified after a reporting restriction expired. Ajay Henry and Tyler Leadbetter, both 17 at the time of the alleged offence, were among five people charged with his murder.
Daniel Ambler was found with serious injuries following a collision at the Esso Asda Express Service Station in Seaham, County Durham, on January 15. He died at the scene.
Reporting restriction lifted
A reporting restriction had been in place banning the two teenagers from being identified because they were youths. Teesside Crown Court has now heard that both have turned 18 years old, and the restriction has expired.
Henry, of Melrose Crescent, Seaham, and Leadbetter, of Elgin Avenue, Seaham, are due to go on trial this week at the court in Middlesbrough. They will appear alongside Barry Anderson, 52, of Canon Cockin Street, Sunderland; Ashton Anderson, 20, of Noble Street, Peterlee; and Barry Logan Anderson, 19, of Shotton Bank, Hartlepool.
Charges and family tribute
All five defendants deny murder. They have also been charged with violent disorder.
Daniel died after being hit by a car at the petrol station on Stockton Road, as previously reported by ChronicleLive. Following his death, his family paid tribute to a "much-loved son and brother".
In a statement, they said: "Daniel was a much-loved son and brother, and his death will leave a huge hole in our hearts forever. He had a great sense of humour, was popular among friends, and was able to bring laughter to any situation."
"Our family is devastated, but we will remember Daniel for being the kind-hearted soul that he was."
The trial is set to take place this week at Teesside Crown Court.
