Detectives have commenced an investigation following the fatal shooting of a woman near Newcastle yesterday.
Just after 8pm (Wednesday 9 June 2021), emergency services were called to a home on Queen Street, Stockton, following reports of a shooting.
A woman died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged 61.
Police have been told the woman answered her front door before she was shot.
Officers from Newcastle City Police District established a crime scene, which is being examined by specialist forensic police.
Detectives formed Strike Force Backhouse to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As inquiries continue, anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage from the surrounding area is urged to contact Newcastle Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.