Tribute paid to '˜kind, caring' teen murdered in Chichester

Luke Jeffrey, 18, was killed on Friday in Chichester.

A man is due to appear in court today charged with murdering him.

Mr Jeffrey’s family said: ‘Luke was a kind, caring and gentle young man.

‘He was passionate about fitness and health and was studying at college to become a fitness instructor.

‘Luke also had a lifelong love of music. He had his whole life ahead of him.

‘He was utterly devoted to his five-year-old sister and she has lost not only her big brother, but also her best friend.

‘He leaves behind loving parents, grandparents, a great-grandmother and many close friends.

‘Luke was just 18 years old when he was killed in a brutal, senseless and cowardly attack.

‘We cannot find the words to describe the loss and absolute grief that we are feeling.’

Samuel Morgan, 19, of Adelaide Road, Chichester, appeared in Crawley Magistrates’ Court yesterday morning charged with murder and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

He was remanded in custody for a second hearing, at Lewes Crown Court, today.

A 20-year-old man from Chichester, who was arrested on suspicion of murder, was released without charge.

Chief Inspector Justin Burtenshaw said: ‘Our thoughts are with Luke’s family and friends at this sad time.

‘We want to do all we can to reassure the local community and officers from the Chichester neighbourhood policing team will be available in the surrounding areas to speak to residents if they have any concerns.’

Mr Jeffrey, of Linden Road, was found with serious stab wounds in Alexandra Road just after 9pm on Friday.

He was initially taken to St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester and then transferred to Southampton General Hospital where he died at around 1am on Saturday morning.