Wallsend man charged with manslaughter following Newcastle city centre death
Three people have been charged following the death of a man in Newcastle city centre last year.
Shortly before 10.30pm on Saturday, July 26, 2025, police received a report from the ambulance service of a man who was injured on Saint Andrew’s Street in the China Town area of the city.
It was reported that a man and a woman had been in an altercation with a small group of people when the man was punched in the head and fell to the ground.
Emergency services attended the scene and a man – 55-year-old Simon Beston – was found to have sustained serious head injuries.
He was taken to hospital for treatment of his injuries but sadly died on August 16.
An investigation was immediately launched by the Force’s Major Investigation Team.
Following the report, five people were arrested at the time: a 19-year-old man on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and two other 19-year-old men, a 19-year-old woman, and a 17-year-old girl on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
On Tuesday, three of those arrested have now been charged:
Ethan Cockram, now aged 20, of Durham Street, Wallsend, has been charged with one count of manslaughter.
Shayne Cook, aged 19, of Winifred Gardens, Wallsend, has been charged with one count of affray.
Lola Charlton, now aged 20, of Fairhaven Avenue, Walker, has been charged with one count of affray.
All three have been released on bail and will appear before Newcastle Magistrates’ Court next month.
The remaining two people arrested have been released with no further action.
Detective Inspector Ashley Loader of Northumbria Police said: “Our thoughts remain firmly with Simon’s family and loved ones following the events of that night.
“We continue to provide them with all the possible support and request that their privacy is respected.
He added: “With proceedings now active, we would ask that the public avoid speculation, both online and in the community, and respect the ongoing legal process.”
Cockram is due to appear at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court on August 21. Cook and Charlton are due to appear before the same court on August 19.