Churchgoers unite in tribute to stabbing victim Keelan Wilson
Churchgoers mourning the loss of teenage stabbing victim Keelan Wilson united for special prayers in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The congregation at St Joseph's Church dedicated prayers to the 15-year-old just days after he was fatally wounded in Wolverhampton.
Residents came together on Sunday morning to 'reflect on the senseless loss of a young life'.
Associate minister at the Coalway Road church Graham Hartnell said community members have been left shocked after hearing of the news which unfolded 'on their doorstep'.
He added: "We know people in the community are hurting and feel frightened by it.
"When people are frightened, they become very isolated - it doesn't help. When all the publicity goes away, we will still be here for the people, we will pray for them."
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Detectives launched a murder probe after Keelan was stabbed to death just yards away from his Merry Hill home last Tuesday evening.
The former Castlefields Primary School pupil was rushed to hospital with serious injuries but was pronounced dead a short time later.
A post-mortem confirmed Keelan, who studied at Highfields School, died from stab wounds after being wounded in Strathfield Walk.
Minister Carl Rudd said: "I think it's shook people up a bit, understandably. It's not what we realise the area to be, it's a calm and quite area."
Dozens of floral tributes have since been left at the scene, including a teddy bear and a signed Castlecroft Primary School top, alongside messages of support.
Keelan's death came just a week after the 40th birthday of his mother, who is pregnant.
Ann Hartnell, who leads the prayer ministry at the church, said: "The tragedy of it - there's a young boy dead and his family in such dire straits.
"For the community as well, it's devastating for them and frightening."
The special prayers were recited during two services usually held at the church on Sunday mornings.
On their Facebook page, St Joseph's Church said: "Today we pray for our community and in particular we pray for our young people.
"We reflect on the senseless loss of a young life and the pain and hurt that comes as a result of that loss.
"We know the solution to gang culture is more God culture. We know the solution to hate and violence is more love and kindness. We know the solution to despair is more hope and more trust in you."
Extra armed police officers patrolled Wolverhampton streets over the weekend, with the force also granted temporary powers to stop and search suspects believed to be involved in crime or carrying weapons.
