Police name ‘happy and loving’ boy, 16, stabbed to death
A teenager who was stabbed to death at the weekend has been named.
Joseph Riches, 16, was killed in Coventry Street, Stourbridge, shortly before 7pm on Saturday evening.
His mum has paid tribute to her only son, saying: ‘Joe wanted nothing more than to grow up and be a dad.
‘He will never get the chance to do that now and for a mom, that is truly devastating.
‘Joe loved going to the gym and was just a happy and loving son. I want to appeal to people to help the police to find out what happened to my son and would ask anyone that can help to come forward with information.’
Four people have been charged with Joe’s murder, including Dray Simmonds and Joshua Edgington, both 19.
Two 16-year-old boys have also been charged but cannot be named for legal reasons.
Detective Inspector Laura Harrison, from the force’s homicide department, said: ‘Our thoughts remain with the family of Joe who are devastated by the loss of their child.
‘Our investigation is still ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who can help us piece together what happened to get in touch with us.
‘We’ve been exploring CCTV and making enquiries and I’d like to thank the public and local community for supporting us so far.’
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