Heartbreak as pensioner dies after suffering 'unexplained' serious injuries in Washington

William Brindley, 77, is understood to have suffered serious injuries near The Galleries in Washington with police investigating

Police are investigating the death of an elderly man who suffered 'unexplained' serious injuries in Washington.

Officers were made aware at around 7pm on Sunday May 8 that a man in his 70s had been taken to hospital after sustaining serious injuries. It's believed the pensioner suffered the injuries between 12pm and 2pm on Wednesday (May 7) in the area of The Galleries in Washington.

Sadly, despite the efforts of medical staff, he sadly passed away earlier today (Sunday).

The man can now be named as William Brindley, 77, from the Lambton area. His next of kin has been notified and continue to receive support from specially-trained officers from Northumbria Police.

An investigation has been launched by local police forces to establish the full circumstances of the situation, with the cause of William's injuries currently being treated as unexplained.

Detective Inspector John Baines, of Northumbria Police, said: "This is incredibly devastating news, and we will continue to offer our support to William’s family and loved ones.

"Our enquiries remain ongoing to ascertain exactly how William sustained his injuries. I would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information to date – however, we know this is a busy area with many passing motorists and shoppers.

"Please contact us if you believe you can help our investigation as the smallest detail could help us secure the answers we need for William’s family."

Officers have asked any witnesses who may have seen William in The Galleries shopping centre area to contact police, and are especially keen to speak with any passing motorists who were driving in the area at the time who might have any dashcam footage.

William was wearing a black coat, a black wool hat, black trousers and black shoes, and had a wooden walking stick in his possession.

Anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use live chat and report forms on the Force’s website.

For those unable to make contact in those ways, call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20250511-0084.