Tributes have been paid to a ‘kind-hearted’ man allegedly murdered at a Seaham petrol station.

Daniel Ambler suffered serious injuries after he was hit by a car at the Esso garage on Stockton Road around 4.50pm on Thursday (January 15), and died at the scene.

The 23-year-old’s family has today (Sunday, January 18) paid tribute to him, saying: “Daniel was a much-loved son and brother, and his death will leave a huge hole in our hearts forever.

“He had a great sense of humour, was popular among friends, and was able to bring laughter to any situation.

“Our family is devastated, but we will remember Daniel for being the kind-hearted soul that he was.”

Seven people have so far been arrested and a manhunt launched for a 19-year-old Ashton Anderson who is wanted in connection with the incident.

Officers are still appealing to the public to find the teenager, who is described as around 5ft10, of slim build, and with short brown hair. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 101.


Ashton Anderson. (Image: DURHAM POLICE)

The road remained closed into Saturday (January 17) as crime scene investigators returned to continue their enquiries.

Forensic officers in white suits were pictured taking photographs in a blue tent at the garage and uniformed police were seen a short distance away near The Mallard pub, scouring an area of grassland.

A forensic officer working at the scene on Saturday (January 17). (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

Police searching the area next to The Mallard. (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

A forensic officer working at the scene on Saturday (January 17). (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

On Sunday morning (January 18), the road had reopened with police having left the scene.

The petrol station remained closed on Sunday but staff were pictured inside its Asda shop once again.

Cones and orange barriers now surround the petrol station. Red tape has replaced the earlier blue police tape around the garage.

Flowers have been placed on the forecourt in tribute to Mr Ambler.

Stockton Road, Seaham (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

Stockton Road, Seaham (Image: ANDY FUTERS)

DCI Chris Woollett said previously: “I’d like to thank the community of Seaham for their support while our officers have been carrying out their inquiries since Thursday evening.

“An increased police presence will remain at a number of locations in and around the area while the investigation continues, but I’d also like to reassure people that we have no information to suggest any wider risk to the public.

Stockton Road, Seaham (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

“Anybody found to be assisting or concealing suspects, however, will face robust action.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the victim.”

Four men, three in their teens and one in his 50s, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Three women, one teenager and two in their 40s, have been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All seven remained in custody on Saturday. Durham Police has been contacted for an update.

Anybody with any information relating to the incident is asked to contact police via 101, quoting incident number 281 of January 15.