Former colleagues of Newcastle stabbing victim Peter Duncan have today issued heartfelt tributes to the 'excellent lawyer' and 'true family man'.
The 52-year-old dad died in hospital on Wednesday night after he was stabbed with a screwdriver in an alleged attack inside Eldon Square shopping centre, in Newcastle city centre.
Detectives are treating Peter's death as murder and are today still questioning three teenagers in connection with what police have described as an 'unprovoked attack'.
Peter, who the Chronicle understands to be from the Benton area of Newcastle, worked as a lawyer for offshore engineering firm, DeepOcean, for eight years.
And today his former colleagues have issued an emotional statement expressing their shock and paying tribute to Peter.
They said: "As a company and as individuals we were devastated to learn of Peter’s tragic death.
"Peter worked with DeepOcean for 8 years. He was an excellent lawyer, we will remember his professionalism and his ability to see beyond the legal issues to identify what was in the best interests of the business, our clients and his colleagues. This, and his great intellect, won the respect of his colleagues and the clients that he worked with around the world."
Peter's former colleagues go on to describe his strong sense of morality and love for his wife and sons.
They continued: "It is his great sense of humour, his strong sense of right and wrong and the fact he genuinely cared for all of those around him that will be remembered most. He was a colleague and friend who would always look out for you and who was always ready to support and help.
"Having worked with him, we also know that he was a true family man who was devoted to his wife and sons. We cannot therefore comprehend how they must feel and our thoughts are with each of them at this most difficult of times."
Former engineer Peter re-trained as a lawyer at Northumbria University .
He worked for Darlington-based DeepOcean until April this year when he took on a post at Royal IHC.
A spokeswoman for Northumbria University added: "We were shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death of Peter and our thoughts go out to his family."
Police have stepped up patrols in Newcastle city centre in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Chief Supt Ged Noble, of Northumbria Police, said: "This continues to be an extremely difficult time for the family and loved ones of Peter.
"Searches have been conducted across the city and at a number of addresses in Newcastle.
"We know that these types of incidents can have a big impact on the local community. I want to reassure the public and businesses that we are doing all we can to prevent incidents of this tragic nature and ensure people feel safe.
"I also want to thank those who have come forward with information and for the public’s patience during our investigation so far."
