A 25-year-old Middlesbrough man has been sentenced to nearly a decade in prison for a fatal assault that occurred earlier this year Trenton Marlowe, residing on Overdale Road, received a sentence of 9 years and 11 months in prison, with an additional 5-year extended licence, after pleading guilty to manslaughter.

The sentencing took place at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, 11 October.

The victim, 52-year-old Darren Saunders of Romney Street, succumbed to injuries sustained during an unprovoked attack on 22 January 2024. The incident occurred at a property on Essex Street, Middlesbrough, known to be frequented by drug users.

According to witness accounts, Marlowe entered the premises shouting accusations at Saunders. The assault that followed involved repeated slaps to Saunders’ face and a punch to his ribs. Witnesses reported that Saunders, who remained seated throughout the attack, did not retaliate and denied any wrongdoing.

Following the assault, Saunders experienced severe pain and illness but remained at the property. He was later found deceased by a friend. A post-mortem examination revealed that Saunders died from internal bleeding caused by a ruptured spleen.

Detective Inspector Matt Hollingsworth, leading the investigation for Cleveland Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, stated, “Marlowe’s actions have caused devastating loss to Darren’s family and friends. While the motive remains unclear, the consequences of this violent act are undeniable.”

Marlowe was arrested on 31 January after a manhunt and subsequently charged.

In a heartfelt tribute, Darren’s mother, Rita Saunders, expressed her profound grief: “The day I heard Darren had died, my whole world fell apart. I miss him dreadfully and long to see his cheeky smile. Our lives will never be the same again.”