This is the scene in Chester-le-Street as police are investigating a major incident.
A large police presence is visible in Melville Street which has been cordoned off, with a forensics tent placed in the middle of the road.
The force is yet to issue a statement confirming the exact nature of the incident.
A witness from the street said: "It happened about 1.56am.
"There's about 30 police here, tents, forensics and everything.
"I'm not sure exactly what's happened."
We have a reporter at the scene and we'll be bringing you the latest updates as more information becomes available here .
