'We will miss him massively': Heartbroken family of teen fatally stabbed in Wolverhampton weeks after turning 17 pay tribute as two teens convicted

Those are the heartbreaking words of the family of Harleigh Hepworth, who was fatally stabbed at a Wolverhampton park earlier this year.

Joined by his friend, 17-year-old Harleigh had travelled to the city from his home in Rugeley on the afternoon of March 7.

The pair headed to West Park to meet Jovarn Esterine, aged 18, and a 17-year-old boy who cannot be named for legal reasons, who would become responsible for his death.

Harleigh was fatally stabbed in the chest by the 17-year-old and ran from the scene. He was found in the park bleeding and died from his injuries.

Esterine, who was aged 17 at the time, prevented Harleigh's friend from intervening as he was stabbed and later held a knife to his chest, threatening to kill him unless he handed the passcode to his phone which was then stolen.

The pair had denied murder but on Monday (November 18), following a six-week trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, the 17-year-old boy was found guilty of murder and robbery.

 Esterine was found not-guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter and robbery. They will be sentenced at a later date.

Now, Harleigh's family have paid tribute to the teen who they "will miss massively".

In a touching tribute issued by West Midlands Police, they said: “On the March 7, two weeks after his 17th Birthday, Harleigh had his short life ended in an instant through a moment of mindless aggression.

“Our family, his girlfriend and close friends will no longer be able to enjoy seeing him grow, mature and enjoy life. 

"He had positive plans for his future. Harleigh had a great sense of humour, he was funny, and he was polite. 

"We will miss him massively, but we will always remember his cheekiness, his infectious smile and the fun times we had together.

“Harleigh’s is another young life lost before they had the chance to know what life is about.”

Following his death, an online fundraiser was set up to fund bleed kits in Staffordshire which raised more than £1,000.

Flowers and notes from loved ones were left in tribute to him outside West Park in the days that following the fatal stabbing. 

There were also calls by Wolves fans to applaud at a match held after his death in tribute to him.