Man charged with murder after Newcastle couple die from serious injuries

Eric Ruddy, 64, and his wife Carol, 56, were found with life-threatening injuries in their home in the Elswick area of Newcastle

The man is believed to have been known to the couple (Getty)

A man has been charged with two counts of murder after a couple in Newcastle who were found seriously injured in their home later died in hospital.

Eric Ruddy, 64, and his wife Carol, 56, were found with life-threatening injuries in their home in the Elswick area of Newcastle after paramedics were called to their address on Friday night.

Police were notified to the incident by the ambulance service at around 10.25pm on Friday. The couple were taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary where they were pronounced dead.

Martin Ruddy, 28, who was also taken to hospital with less serious injuries, was later arrested and has since been charged with two counts of murder. He is due to appear before North Tyneside Magistrate’s court on Monday.

Officers believe the three people are known to each other.

Northumbria Police said in a statement: “Police have today charged a man with two murders.

“This follows the death of a married couple, 64-year-old Eric and 56-year-old Carol Ruddy who died at their home in Bentinck Street, Elswick, on Friday, December 12.”

According to reports, Mrs Ruddy was a disabled wheelchair-user and her husband was her carer.

The Newcastle Evening Chronicle reported that neighbours had attempted to resuscitate the man as he lay in the house on Friday.

The neighbour said: “Were all so shocked. My son lives next door and went into the house to revive Eric.

“Another couple also went in and helped. We are a close knit community and all like to help each other. This is so upsetting for all of us.”

Additional reporting by Press Association