A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a young man outside a supermarket in County Durham, with police urgently appealing for information and seeking a teenager in connection with the incident.
Tragic Incident Outside Seaham Supermarket
Emergency services were called to the Asda Express garage on Stockton Road in Seaham at approximately 4.50pm on Thursday, January 15. The call concerned reports that a pedestrian had been struck by a car. Despite the rapid response and efforts of paramedics, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim has been formally identified as 23-year-old Daniel Ambler from the Durham area. In a heartrending tribute, his devastated family described him as a "much-loved son and brother" whose death has left a permanent void.
"He had a great sense of humour, was popular among friends, and was able to bring laughter to any situation," the family statement continued. "Our family is devastated, but we will remember Daniel for being the kind-hearted soul that he was."
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Durham Constabulary has confirmed it is treating the death as murder. As part of the inquiry, officers are particularly keen to locate and speak to 19-year-old Ashton Anderson, who is wanted on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident.
Anderson is described as around 5ft 10in tall, of slim build, and with short brown hair. His photograph has been released to the public in an effort to trace him.
In a significant development, police have already made several arrests. Three teenagers and a man in his 50s have been detained in connection with the killing. Furthermore, a woman in her teens and two women in their 40s were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All remain in police custody for questioning.
How to Assist the Inquiry
Detectives are urging anyone with information, who may have witnessed the event or have relevant dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward immediately. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local Seaham community.
Members of the public can contact Durham Constabulary by calling 101 and quoting the reference number incident 281 of January 15. For those wishing to remain completely anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached on 0800 555 111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
The investigation continues as police work to establish the full circumstances leading to the tragic loss of a young man described by his family as a kind-hearted soul.
