'We will miss him so much': Heartbroken young family fatally stabbed weeks after turning 17 in Wolverhampton, two teenagers convicted

These are the heartbreaking words from Harleigh Hepworth’s family. Fatally stabbed in Wolverhampton park earlier this year.

Harleigh, 17, had traveled to the city from her home in Rugeley on the afternoon of March 7, joined by her friend.

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

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

Harleigh Hepworth, who died tragically. Photo: West Midlands Police

Esterine, who was 17 at the time, prevented her friend from intervening as Harleigh was stabbed and then held a knife to her chest and threatened to kill her unless she gave the password to her stolen phone.

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

You had ester was found not guilty of murder but he is guilty of murder and robbery. They will be sentenced at a later date.

Jovarn Esterine was found guilty of murder and robbery. Photo: West Midlands Police

Now Harleigh’s family have paid tribute to the teenager they will “miss so much”.

In a touching tribute published by West Midlands Police, they said: “On 7 March, two weeks after her 17th Birthday, Harleigh’s short life was abruptly ended by a moment of mindless aggression.

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

“She had positive plans for her future. Harleigh had a great sense of humour, was funny and kind.

“We will miss him so much but we will always remember his sass, his infectious smile and the fun times we had together.

“Harleigh is another young life lost before she had the chance to understand what life is.”

Following Harleigh's death, flowers were laid outside West Park in her memory — Following Harleigh’s death, flowers were laid outside West Park in her memory

After his death, an online fundraiser has been set up More than £1,000 raised to fund blood collection kits in Staffordshire.

flowers and Notes from my loved ones They were left outside West Park as a tribute to him in the days following the fatal stabbing.

There were also calls from Wolves fans. applause at the match It was organized in his memory after his death.

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