Manhunt launched for Ashton Anderson, 19, after Seaham petrol station death investigated as murder
Manhunt launched for Ashton Anderson after a man in his 20s was killed by a car on a petrol station forecourt in Seaham, police confirmed Friday.
Officers said they are actively searching for 19-year-old Ashton Anderson, who is believed to hold vital information about the fatal incident at the Esso garage on Stockton Road.
Seven people are now in police custody as part of a murder investigation into the Seaham petrol station death.
The incident happened at around 4.50pm on January 15, when a man in his 20s was struck by a vehicle on the forecourt. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police have arrested seven people in connection with the investigation. Three male teenagers and a man in his 50s were arrested on suspicion of murder. Three women — including one teenager and two in their 40s — were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All seven remain in custody.
A police cordon remains in place at the petrol station, and Durham Constabulary said there will be an increased police presence in and around Seaham while enquiries continue.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Woollett said officers have no information to suggest any wider risk to the public and thanked the local community for its support. He added that anyone found to be assisting or concealing suspects would face “robust action.”
Legal context: what happens now
Under UK law, arrests at this stage do not mean charges have been filed.
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What legally changed today: Police formally confirmed an active manhunt for Ashton Anderson and confirmed all seven arrested suspects remain in custody.
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What happens next: Investigators must decide whether there is sufficient evidence to seek charges, release suspects, or apply for further detention. Any charging decision must be authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service.
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Legal standard: To bring a murder charge, prosecutors must assess whether the evidence shows an unlawful killing with intent or reckless disregard for life.
If charges are approved, suspects would first appear before a magistrates’ court before any case proceeds to the Crown Court.
Police continue to appeal for information as the investigation remains active, with officers maintaining a visible presence across County Durham while key legal decisions are pending and the victim’s family is supported.
