Family of Sheffield school stabbing victim Harvey Willgoose says they are 'utterly heartbroken'

The family of a 15-year-old boy stabbed to death at a school in Sheffield has paid tribute to their "beautiful boy".

In a statement released by police, the family of Harvey Willgoose said their lives would "never be the same again".

"We are utterly heartbroken at the loss of our beautiful boy, Harvey Goose," they said.

"Our lives are devastated and will never be the same again. We have lost a beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin, nephew and most importantly, a best friend to all.

"Harvey will be forever known for being a caring, loving and funny young man. At this difficult time we ask you to please respect our privacy as we grieve as a family."

The stabbing took place at All Saints Catholic High School at lunchtime on Monday.

Police were called to reports of a stabbing and found Harvey with "serious injuries". He died a short time after despite the best efforts of medics.

A 15-year-old boy has been detained on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

Officers are continuing to support Harvey's family and conduct further enquiries at the school.

A statement from All Saints Catholic High School said Harvey was an "immensely popular young man with his fellow students and teachers alike" and had "a smile that would light up the room".

"We are all struggling to process what has happened and our thoughts and prayers are with Harvey's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time," it said.

"It is unimaginable to comprehend what they are going through and whilst there are no words that will take away the pain and grief from Harvey's family and friends, I simply want to express, on behalf of the whole school community, our heartfelt condolences."

It added that the "tragic and shocking incident... shakes us to our core".

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The school also said it is assisting the police with their investigation.

Assistant Chief Constable Lindsey Butterfield said: "Our thoughts remain with Harvey's family, friends and loved ones, as well as the wider school community as they come to terms with his loss.

"We understand that news of Harvey's death will have caused a considerable amount of shock and upset in the local community, and our officers will remain in the nearby area to offer reassurance to residents."

However she urged people to "avoid unhelpful online speculation and identifying anyone who they believe to be involved in this tragic incident".

"Identifying a suspect can prejudice court proceedings and risks justice not being secured for Harvey and his family," she said.

"We will take action against those who pose a risk to judicial proceedings and I want to remind people of their responsibility around what they share and post online and the potential impact it can have on justice."

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