Family pay tribute to ‘funny and cheeky boy’ who died following stabbing in Manchester

The family of a 15-year-old boy who died in Manchester on Thursday night have paid tribute to their ‘funny and cheeky boy’ as the investigation continues.

Officers were called by colleagues from North West Ambulance Service to an address on Bednal Avenue in Miles Platting where a 15-year-old boy was treated at the scene for stab wounds.

Jakub Szymanski was taken to hospital where he sadly died around an hour later. His mother - a woman in her 40s - was also treated at the scene for serious stab wounds and was taken to hospital where she is remains in a stable condition.

His family said: “Jakub was lovingly known as Kuba to his family and Jakub to his friends. He was always a popular child making friends wherever he went due to his friendly and chatty nature.

“He always spoke his mind, he was mischievous, funny and a cheeky boy. He loved his Xbox and football, supporting Manchester City.

“He was like every other teenage boy and was helpful to so many people, even those he just met. To our family, he’s our hero.”

A 44-year-old man from Manchester was arrested in Kent last night (10 June 2022) on suspicion of murder. He is believed to be known to the victims and is currently being questioned.

Detective Chief Inspector Alicia Smith, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: “We’re still continuing with our investigation and last night’s arrest has been a huge step in potentially getting a grieving family the answers they so badly need.

“A teenage boy who had his whole life ahead of him has tragically lost his life and not only is his mother grieving at the loss of her son, but she is also recovering from what will have been no doubt, hugely traumatic.

“We would still like to hear from anyone with any information, or anyone who may have seen anything. Report it online at www.gmp.police.uk or alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”