Family pay tribute to 'remarkable' 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in a 'targeted' attack on Bonfire Night

The family of a 16-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in Manchester in a 'targeted' attack on Bonfire Night have paid tribute to him.

Officers were called just after 7pm on Thursday following reports of a stabbing in the Moston area of the city.

Greater Manchester Police said that despite the efforts of emergency services Alexander John Soyoye, known as John, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The force said it believed the incident occurred following an altercation between a number of males armed with weapons.

In a statement on Friday, John's family said: 'He was a remarkable man that was full of energy, intelligence and love. His energy was felt by everyone that met him.

'He was smart, caring and friendly and he will be missed but remembered.'

Alexander John Soyoye, known as John, was pronounced dead at the scene after police found him suffering with stab wounds

An 18-year-old man later went to hospital with apparent stab wound injuries and was then arrested on suspicion of murder.

He remains in hospital, added police.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Clitherow said it was believed to be a 'targeted attack' and urged witnesses to come forward.

He said: 'First and foremost, we want to express our deepest sympathies to the family of this young boy who has had his life tragically taken from him.

'All our thoughts are with them as they try to come to terms with this devastating loss and we have a dedicated team of officers around them to provide support.

The force said it believed the incident occurred following an altercation between a number of males armed with weapons

An 18-year-old man later went to hospital with apparent stab wound injuries and was then arrested on suspicion of murder

'We believe this to have been a targeted attack and we are confident there are people out there who know what happened or know the identity of those involved.

'Any information could prove vital to our investigation so please do the right thing and submit information via the major incident public portal.

'The family of this young boy deserve justice and we need the help of the community to trace those involved.'

Anyone with information should call the police on 101 quoting incident number 2639 of 05/11/20, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.