Two Young Men Found Guilty of Murdering Blaine Hammond
Louis Whelan and Anthony Keating, both 23, have been convicted of the brutal murder of 22-year-old Blaine Hammond. The savage attack happened in the early hours of December 3 last year.
Horrific Assault and Callous Abandonment
After viciously beating Blaine, the pair dragged his injured body to a disused exchange box across Saltburn Road and abandoned him. Emergency services discovered Blaine’s battered body but sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Investigation and Court Verdict
Police launched an urgent investigation, collecting CCTV footage and conducting house-to-house and forensic inquiries. This evidence led to the arrest and charges against Whelan of Watling Street, Towcester, and Keating of Palmerston Road, sunderland/" title="Sunderland" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Sunderland.
Following a four-week trial at Newcastle Crown Court, the jury found both men guilty of murder. They were immediately remanded into custody and will be sentenced at a later date.
Detective Chief Inspector Speaks Out
“First and foremost, our thoughts remain with Blaine’s loved ones following his tragic loss and we will continue to support them in any way that we can,” said Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Chatterton. “This was a shocking, brutal attack that has left a family without a son, brother, nephew, uncle, grandson and dear friend. “The offenders denied the charges, forcing Blaine’s family to endure a lengthy court process before seeing justice done. While no verdict can erase their pain, we hope this offers some closure. “I want to thank the officers and staff who worked tirelessly on this investigation. Thanks also go to the local community whose help was crucial in securing this result Blaine and his family deserve.”
