Man shot dead outside Indian restaurant in South Shields

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A man has been shot dead outside a takeaway.

He was found with a gunshot wound in a lane behind the Herbs n Spice Kitchen Indian restaurant in Lake Avenue, South Shields, at 9.58pm yesterday.

Paramedics attempted to treat him but he was declared dead at the scene and police cordoned off the area while they investigated. A spokesman for Northumbria Police said inquiries were continuing.

Officers have been sent to the area to provide reassurance, the spokesman said.

Anyone who was in the area last night and might have information is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191, quoting reference number 1255 07/04/15.