Bath murder: tributes paid to 'loving, funny and hard working' man killed as teen charged

The 15-year-old boy will appear in court on Monday
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Police have named a man who died in a suspected stabbing in Bath.

Ben Moncrieff, 18, died following an incident in the Southgate Street area of the city on Saturday (6 May). Friends have described him as a  'loving, funny and hard working' man.

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Avon and Somerset Police have charged a 15-year-old boy from south London with murder and possession of a bladed article. He has been remanded to appear before magistrates in Bristol on Monday (8 May).

A force spokesperson added: "Ben’s family have been updated of the charging decision and will continue to be supported by specially-trained officers."

Flowers were left outside the scene on Saturday with a card reading "God bless you darling". The popular Southgate Street was cordoned off due to the 'incident' - with officers there saying it will be 'shut for two days'.

Police activity outside McDonalds in Bath city centre. Picture: Daniel Jae Webb / SWNSPolice activity outside McDonalds in Bath city centre. Picture: Daniel Jae Webb / SWNS
Police activity outside McDonalds in Bath city centre. Picture: Daniel Jae Webb / SWNS

"He brought endless smiles to everyone"

Friends of Ben have said up a GoFundMe. Writing on the page, one said: "Sadly a dear friend to many was taken from us on Saturday morning in the centre of Bath.

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"Ben was a hard working lad who had his life taken for no reason. The pain we’re all experiencing is something words can’t describe but I hope your happy up there seeing us all cherish the many memories we all made with you ❤️.

''Ben was not only one of the most loving people I had the pleasure to meet he was also the funniest. He brought endless smiles to everyone who was lucky enough to meet him and will never be forgotten.

''I’m so lucky to have made so many memories with you and I will cherish them everyday your not here with me.

''Ben you deserved so much better than this and for that reason I hope we can raise money to give him the funeral and send off he deserves. you will be missed forever Ben we will never forget you.''

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The GoFundMe page has raised over £5,000 since launching. You can donate to the crowdfunder here.

Tragic incidents are "rare" in Bath

Emergency services were called to the Southgate Street area of the city centre shortly before 3.30am on Saturday following reports of a man having sustained serious injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin have been informed.

Chief Inspector Ronnie Lungu said: “First and foremost our thoughts go out to the family of the man who has died at this difficult and incredibly upsetting time. A murder investigation is underway and we’d please ask for the benefit of our enquiries, but more importantly the welfare of the man’s family, that people avoid speculating on the possible circumstances while that is ongoing.

Ch Insp Lungu added: “While such tragic incidents are rare in Bath, people can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days while investigative enquiries are carried out and officer patrols conducted. We would encourage anyone who does have concerns to speak with those officers who will be happy to assist. A scene remains in place at this time. We appreciate that will cause some disruption to the public and businesses today, but would please ask for understanding while officers carry out important work to establish what has happened."

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage of the surrounding area or has information that may assist our investigation is please asked to call 101 and quote reference number 5223105088.

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