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A 26-year-old man who died after he was reportedly sprayed in the face with a corrosive substance has been pictured for the first time as tributes were paid by friends and family on social media.
Andy Foster was named by police as the man who died after he was attacked on Eighton Terrace in Wrekenton, Gateshead, shortly after 11pm on Sunday August 20.
Two individuals are said to have knocked on the front door of a house in the street and sprayed Mr Foster in the face with ammonia as he answered.
He was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries after allegedly being exposed to the substance, which can cause serious burns and corrosive injuries to the skin on contact.
Despite the best efforts of medics, he could not be saved, and later died of his injuries, prompting a police investigation into the incident that officers are treating as murder.
Andy Foster, who died after allegedly being sprayed in the face with ammonia as he answered the door on Sunday night
Eighton Terrace in Wrekenton, Gateshead, where the 26-year-old was allegedly sprayed in the face with a corrosive substance, causing fatal injuries
Tributes have been paid to Andy Foster on social media after he died following an incident on Sunday in Gateshead, which police are treating as murder
Tributes have been paid to Mr Foster by friends on social media, who remembered him as someone 'always there when anybody needed you'.
One friend said: 'Still can’t believe your gone Andy Foster, you were always there whenever anybody needed you, always knew how to make people laugh, you will be such a big miss! Rest in peace.'
Another added: 'Lost for words at the minute. You've been a friend since as far back as I can remember.
'R.I.P Andy Foster love you mate...I'm so sorry.'
A third friend wrote: 'Such a lovely lad I was only speaking to him the other day.'
A relative wrote: 'Absolutely gutted what is wrong with this world! Rip cuz.'
What is ammonia?
Ammonia is a colourless, reactive gas lighter than air that dissolves readily in water, with a strong smell akin to urine.
It is a common industrial chemical used to make fertilisers, plastics, dyes, explosives and medicines, and is used in home cleaning products.
Very high concentrations of ammonia can cause corrosive damage and serious burns to skin on contact.
Source: Public Health England
His alleged attackers fled the scene immediately after the incident. Police are making a number of enquiries to trace those responsible.
Mr Foster's next of kin have been informed and continue to be supported by specially-trained Family Liaison Officer from Northumbria Police, which has launched an investigation into the slaying.
A 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
He has since been released under investigation, pending further enquiries.
Officers issued an appeal on Tuesday for witnesses and anyone with information pertaining to the incident to come forward.
Detective Inspector Tam Fowler, of Northumbria Police's Major Investigation Team, said: 'First and foremost, our thoughts go out to Andy's family and loved ones after he has sadly passed away.
'This was a tragic incident and we will continue to support them in any way that we can during this exceptionally difficult time.
'Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what has happened and how Andy has ultimately lost his life.
'While our investigation is at an early stage, it is believed that those involved are known to each other and there is no wider risk to the public.
'At this time, I am now appealing to the public for their help - and would urge any further witnesses or anyone with information to come forward to police as soon as possible.
'Your support could prove vital as we look to find answers for Andy's family.'
Officers remain in the area to carry out enquiries and offer reassurance to the public.
