A man accused of murdering a "treasured" Gateshead-born mum-of-six has died in prison.
Liam Murray had been charged with killing his partner Stacey Cooper, 34, after she was found dead on New Year's Eve.
The 27-year-old had twice appeared in court charged with murder and possessing a bladed article - a kitchen knife - in public, but had yet to enter a plea and was being held in custody at HMP Durham.
But he was found dead on Tuesday, reports Teesside Live.
Ms Cooper was allegedly murdered by Murray at her home on Malham Gill, on December 31 .
Her family paid tribute following her death.
They said: "Stacey was a much-loved mother-of-six, a treasured daughter and sister.
"There are no words to express our sadness.
"Stacey was a wonderful mother and the loss of her to her children is unimaginable."
It is understood Ms Cooper was born in the Gateshead area and moved to Teesside with her family.
The day after her death one of her best friends choked back tears calling the mum-of-six "her rock" and said she "can't believe she's gone".
Murray had been due to appear in court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on January 29.
A Prison Service spokeswoman said: “HMP Durham prisoner Liam Murray died in custody on January 14.
"Our thoughts are with his friends and family.
“As with all deaths in custody, there will be an independent investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.”
Murray was jailed in 2015 for two and a half years for stamping on his then girlfriend after a "volcanic loss of temper".
The scared, blood-covered victim managed to get away, banged on doors and sought help in a house.
She was treated at A&E for a cut above her right eye, bruising and swelling.
Murray, of Whitby Avenue, Guisborough , admitted unlawful wounding.
