Police have praised the bravery of a woman who was subjected to a "truly horrific" attack in which her "beautiful baby boy" was murdered and she was seriously injured.
Denis Beytula was meant to love and care for partner but instead he violently stabbed them in a shocking betrayal of trust.
The double attack in Wallsend on October 2 shocked Tyneside and police said it was "difficult to comprehend" Beytula's heinous actions.
A court heard there was a background of domestic violence and a "turbulent" or "coercive" relationship before the fatal outburst of violence.
After 27-year-old Beytula pleaded guilty to murdering his baby and attempting to murder his partner, a police chief said the double stabbing had a profound effect on the local community.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Cole, of Northumbria Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET), said: “This was a truly horrific assault that rocked an entire community and even now it is difficult to comprehend how Denis Beytula could commit these offences.
“His victims were both completely innocent and they were two people he was supposed to love and protect - he betrayed them in the most violent of ways.
“It is tragic when any life is taken away but it is particularly distressing when that life is a beautiful baby boy and I know that has had a profound effect on the wider community.
“I welcome the fact that Beytula has pleaded guilty and prevented Andreea and her family from having to suffer the ordeal of a trial, however, I know that will bring her little comfort.
“She has been a pillar of strength throughout our investigation and I just want to take this opportunity to praise her for her incredible bravery at what continues to be a very difficult time.
“Andreea fought for her life and because of her determination she is alive today to see this man put behind bars, but what happened that day will stay with her for the rest of her life.
"Her world will never be the same again but we will continue to offer her all the support she needs so she can try and begin to move on with her life.”
DCI Cole added: “I also want to take this opportunity to again praise the emergency responders who helped to save Andreea’s life and gave Andrei a fighting chance.
“It is hard to comprehend how they must have felt when they were administering first aid to such a young baby who had been attacked in such a violent manner.
“Their response was exemplary and I want to thank them for their actions. I know what they saw will live with them for the rest of their lives and we will make sure they have access to any support they need.”
Beytula attacked the mother and son on October 2 at their home on Portland Close, Wallsend, with Andrei dying four days later.
After pleading guilty to the attack, he was further remanded in custody and will be sentenced in December.
