Schoolboy, 14, charged with murder of Tomasz Oleszak, 14, stabbed to death near nature park

A SCHOOLBOY has been charged with murdering a 14-year-old who was stabbed to death near a nature reserve.

Tomasz Oleszak was rushed to hospital after the horror unfolded in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, on Monday night.

Sadly he couldn't be saved and was declared dead in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The Crown Prosecution Service has now confirmed a 14-year-old boy has been charged with murder.

He is also charged with attempted wounding with intent and having a bladed article in a public place.

The teen, who can't legally be named, will appear at Newcastle Magistrates' Court today.

A 13-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed.

Christopher Atkinson, Head of the Crown Court Unit at CPS North East, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised Northumbria Police to charge a 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, in relation to the fatal stabbing of Tomasz Oleszak in the Aycliffe Crescent area of Springwell Estate on the evening of Monday 3^rd October.

“The boy has been charged with one count of murder, one of attempted wounding with intent, and one of having a bladed article in a public place.

"Our thoughts are with the Tomasz Oleszak's family at this difficult time."

Tributes flooded in for Tomasz, who played for Gateshead Cleveland Hall CA youth football club.

The team released a statement, saying: "As a club today we are very devastated to hear that one of our young football players has lost his life.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and anyone that knew Tomasz."

The club also shared a link to a  page, which has so far raised over £20,000 to help the teen's family.

Brendan Robson, headteacher of Cardinal Hume Catholic School, said: "As a much-loved and treasured pupil, Tomasz was a dedicated and committed young man who was the life and soul of his friendship group.

"Tomasz was charismatic and engaging, always displaying a great sense of humour.

"He was a loyal friend who others could turn to. As a talented footballer and wonderful team player he has been described by his friends as 'someone you'd always want to have on your team'.

"The staff will remember his warmth, energy and positive personality.

"He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

Northumbria Police were scrambled to the Aycliffe Crescent area of the Springwell Estate just after 8pm on Monday.

It came as horrified neighbours heard screaming coming from the Whitehills Nature Park.