odie Wilkinson, 27 and from Newcastle, was attacked during an apparent argument in Stanhope Street on Monday afternoon.
Ms Wilkinson's male companion, 25, was also stabbed but has since been released from hospital.
The 10 or 11 attackers fled to an address in the nearby Queens Court area, police said.
No weapon has been found.
Five men, aged 18, 20, 22, 25 and 25, have been arrested in connection with the incident but Northumbria Police have appealed for help in finding others.
Chief Superintendent David Felton said: "It was 3.50pm and schools had not long finished and people were walking,
driving and cycling in the area.
"Any tiny piece of information could be key so please don't hesitate in contacting us.
"The incident itself would have looked like a group of people fighting, like an altercation of some kind, and there would have been shouting and fighting."
Mr Felton also tried to reassure the public, saying: "Although the motive behind the attack is still being investigated, we believe it potentially could have been some kind of dispute.
"I want to reassure the community that we do not believe there is any risk to the general public."
Ms Wilkinson's sister, Amy, described her as a devoted aunt and sister.
"She would do anything for anyone and we've got no idea why someone would take her life," she said.
"All we ask is at this stage anyone with information, no matter how small, to please come forward and assist the police."
Anyone with information should ring 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 08000 555 111.
