Key Takeaways:
- A 17-year-old boy died after being allegedly stabbed at a park in Sydney’s north-west.
- The victim’s parents have paid tribute to their son, describing him as loyal, sporty, and fun-loving.
- Two 15-year-old boys have been charged with murder over the alleged attack and remain in custody.
- The community has come together to pay their respects to the teenager, with a vigil held on Wednesday.
- The victim’s parents and girlfriend have spoken out against violence, urging young people to support each other and choose peace.
Introduction to the Tragic Incident
The parents of a 17-year-old boy who died after being allegedly stabbed at a park in Sydney’s north-west have spoken out in a heartfelt statement. The incident occurred at Bruce Purser Reserve, a grassy area behind Rouse Hill High School, on Monday at approximately 4:20 pm. The victim suffered a fatal stab wound to the leg, and despite efforts to save him, he tragically passed away. The parents’ statement, shared with Nine News, expressed their devastation and grief, saying, "There are no words to express the pain our family is going through. No parent should ever have to bury their child."
Tribute to the Victim
The parents described their son as a loyal, sporty, and fun-loving young man who had a radiant smile that could light up any room. They praised his love for sports, particularly soccer and tennis, and highlighted his recent championship victory with his teammates from the Quakers Hill Tigers soccer club. The parents also acknowledged the impact their son had on those around him, saying, "His legacy reminds us to support one another, speak up, and choose peace over violence." They expressed their gratitude for the time they had with their son and the memories they shared, saying, "We want (him) to be remembered as a social, fun, loving, sporty and loyal young man."
Community Response
The community has come together to pay their respects to the teenager, with a vigil held on Wednesday. The victim’s parents attended the vigil and were moved by the outpouring of support, saying, "(It) showed us just how much (he) was loved and how many lives he touched. Thank you to everyone young and parents who came." The parents also thanked those who rushed to their son’s aid after the stabbing, including the ladies who stayed with him until paramedics arrived and the paramedics who did everything possible to save his life. Additionally, they expressed their gratitude to the police force for their support and efforts to bring justice for their son.
Investigation and Charges
Two 15-year-old boys have been charged with murder over the alleged attack and remain in custody until the New Year. The police investigation is ongoing, and the community is waiting for justice to be served. The victim’s parents have urged young people to support each other and choose peace over violence, saying, "Violence is never the answer. We hope that (his) death will not be in vain and that young people will come together, support each other, and speak up."
Personal Tributes
The victim’s girlfriend shared a heartfelt tribute to her boyfriend, saying he brought a smile to her face every single day without fail. She described him as a strong boy who made the little things fun and didn’t deserve to die. She vowed to live on and stay strong, saying, "I don’t know what I’m going to do without you baby, but I know you would want me to live and stay strong, so I’ll live for you ML [my love]." The victim’s parents also shared their own personal tribute, saying, "We would like to acknowledge… the ladies who rushed to (our son’s) aid without hesitation and stayed with him until paramedics arrived." They also thanked the paramedics and police for their efforts, saying, "The paramedics, who did everything possible to save (his) life. The police force, who have supported our family from day one and continue working tirelessly to bring justice for (him)."
Conclusion
The tragic death of the 17-year-old boy has sent shockwaves through the community, and his parents’ statement serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violence. The outpouring of support from the community, including the vigil and tributes from loved ones, is a testament to the victim’s character and the lives he touched. As the investigation continues, the community will come together to support the victim’s family and to urge young people to choose peace over violence. The victim’s legacy will live on, and his memory will serve as a reminder to support one another and to choose peace over violence.
