A murder investigation has been launched after a woman died after being punched in the face in a bar in North Shields, Tyneside.

The victim, named locally as 40-year-old Lisa Denton, was punched in the face at Charlie’s Bar in Russell Street in the town on Saturday night and taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Despite the efforts of medical staff in intensive care, she died a few hours later.

Her sister Gillian posted on Facebook early yesterday: ‘Tonight between 9.30 and 12pm my sister was attacked and punched in the face at Charlie’s bar north shields.

‘She is in intensive care fighting for her life. If anyone knows anything please contact us or the police…… let’s get this person before he does it to any other female.’

A male teenager has since been arrested on suspicion of murder, while a woman in her 50s has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. Both are in police custody.

A murder investigation has been launched after 40-year-old Lisa Denton (pictured) was punched in the face at a bar in North Shields on Saturday. She later died in hospital
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A murder investigation has been launched after 40-year-old Lisa Denton (pictured) was punched in the face at a bar in North Shields on Saturday. She later died in hospital

Lisa was attacked at Charlie's Bar in Russell Street, North Shields (pictured). A male teenager has been arrested on suspicion of murder
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Lisa was attacked at Charlie’s Bar in Russell Street, North Shields (pictured). A male teenager has been arrested on suspicion of murder

Gillian’s fiancé, Dean, confirmed in a social media post yesterday that Lisa had died from her injuries.

‘Our family is devastated to share that our Lisa sadly passed away from the injuries she sustained in a horrific attack at Charlies North Shield,’ he said.

‘She was deeply loved, and her loss has left a hole in our hearts that cannot be put into words. We are grateful for the love and support we’ve already received.’

Northumbria Police said they were contacted shortly after 10pm on Saturday, following reports of an altercation on Russell Street in North Shields where a woman sustained a serious injury.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Atherton, said: ‘Our thoughts remain firmly with the family and loved ones of the woman who has died. We will continue to provide them with any support they need following this tragic incident.’

He said an investigation had been launched and urged people not to speculate on social media as it could jeopardise the inquiry.