A 49-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a court bailiff who was attacked while he was at work.
Robert Davies has been charged with murder, possession of an offensive weapon, and affray.
He has been remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Durham Constabulary said officers were called shortly after 1pm on Tuesday to reports that a man had been assaulted in Dent Street in Shildon, County Durham.
Former police officer Jeff Blair, 55, sustained serious injuries and died after being taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.
Mr Blair worked as a police officer for Durham Constabulary for 22 years before retiring in 2017 prior to becoming a bailiff.
Detective Chief Inspector Sharon Alderson, who is leading the investigation, said: “This has been a deeply upsetting incident which has caused a great deal of shock to the local community.
“Our thoughts are with Jeff’s family and all those who knew and loved him at this difficult time.
“We will continue to have a police presence at the scene, and I’d like to thank the public and nearby residents for their patience, understanding, and co-operation while we work to establish exactly what has happened.
“We are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information that could help the investigation and has not yet spoken to us.”
His death was described as “a shocking and horrendous incident” by a courts and tribunals spokesperson.
A colleague at a court in the north east of England, who asked not to be named, said: “He was a lovely guy and an absolute gentleman.
“He was always polite with people and would say ‘please don’t do that’ rather than be overbearing.
“He was a peacemaker, not at all aggressive.”
The source said that Mr Blair was working on Tuesday and attended a property with a locksmith when there was a confrontation.
An HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesperson said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Jeff Blair’s family, friends and those who worked with him.
“This was a shocking and horrendous incident.
“Violence against our hardworking staff is completely unacceptable, and we are providing support to our colleagues affected by this tragedy.”
It was understood the courts service will now review what happened and whether further action was needed to protect bailiffs in the course of their work.
According to the government website, court bailiffs or enforcement agents can visit people’s homes if debts are outstanding, such as council tax bills, fines or court judgments.
A bailiff may be used to serve court documents or give notices and summons.
The terraced street remained cordoned off on Thursday afternoon, with a large police presence still at the scene.
In a statement, his family said: “Jeff was a much-loved son, brother, father, partner, uncle, and good friend to many.
“His ability to apply humour and laughter to any situation and lighten the mood will be irreplaceable to our family.
“We are devastated to lose Jeff in such tragic circumstances, and he will be forever missed and remembered always, with much love and affection.”
Darlington Storm Basketball Club said Mr Blair was a “former player, coach and committee member”.
In a tribute shared on social media, the club said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very traumatic and troublesome time.”
Police asked anyone with information to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident reference 209 of March 10.
Information can also be submitted anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
