The family of a university student who died after being stabbed in the chest during a night out have described the “devastating” loss of their “kind, smart, talented son”.
Henry Nowak, 18, of Chafford Bridge, Essex, was stabbed in the chest and twice in the back of his leg during an altercation with two men in Belmont Road, Southampton, on Wednesday. He died on the spot.
A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said two men, aged 22 and 26, were detained on suspicion of murder.
Police said a 51-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was released on bail, while a 52-year-old woman was detained on suspicion of assisting an offender.
The Portswood street where the altercation took place was closed during the investigation [BBC]
Paying tribute to Mr Nowak, Mr Nowak’s family said: “Our kind, smart and talented son was in his first year at the University of Southampton.
“He has achieved his A-levels and fully embraced university life, joining not one but two football teams, making new friends and working part-time.
“Henry was loved by all who knew him. He was an incredible son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew, friend and teammate. He was an all-around top lad and everyone who was lucky enough to share his company thought so.
“He went out for a night out with his new rugby team mates to celebrate the end of their first term at university. Shockingly, he never came home.
“There are no words to describe how heartbreaking it is that we will never get to see him grow and reach his immense potential.
“We’re so proud of him and everything he’s accomplished.”
A spokesman for Hampshire Police said: “The investigation, led by our major crime team, is ongoing and we remain keen to speak to any witnesses who have not yet contacted us.”
Police are appealing for any information and CCTV or other footage from the Portswood and St Denys areas between 22:00 and 02:00 GMT.
