Mystery of dead man still unsolved
Jan 1 2009 by Chris Robinson, The Journal
MYSTERY still surrounds the identity of a man found dead in a Northumberland village nine days ago and who may be of South American origin.
The body was discovered in a derelict building on the B1340 on the outskirts of Christon Bank village near Embleton, Northumberland, shortly before 4pm on December 23.
A piece of paper found on the man contains a Cuban address and the name Lazaro Reyes Balmaseda – although police say they have received no reports of anyone of that name missing.
The man – thought to be in his 50s – had been seen recently in the area with a silver and white bicycle but police confirmed yesterday he has not yet been identified.
Foul play is not suspected.
A villager said that the man had been spotted in the area on a number of occasions recently.
He said: “If it is the same person, he had been around here for a while. He used to push his bike around here.
“He didn’t have a home, but there used to be an old byre where he stayed. I understand it was one of the beaters who found him. They were out on a shooting day. He was inside the building and they reckon what happened is he had fallen through the floorboards and broken a leg.”
A Northumbria Police spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that a man estimated to be around 55 years of age was found dead on Fallodon Road on the outskirts of Christon Bank village on December 23.
“The man, wearing dark clothing, is described as dark-skinned, possibly of South American origin and around 5ft 6ins tall.
“He had a piece of paper with a name on it but we have not been able to establish his identity at this time.
“He had recently been seen with a two-tone silver and white bicycle.
“There is not believed to be any third party involvement in the man’s death, but inquiries are ongoing to establish his identity and prepare a report for the coroner.”
The Northumbria Police spokeswoman added that the paper found on him could be a red herring and that an inquest would be opened in due course.
Anyone who has seen the man or can help identify him is asked to contact police on 0345 604-3043.
