A TEENAGER who was stabbed to death in Coventry was a bright, respectful student and a loyal friend, his headteacher has said in a tribute.
The city is in shock after 16-year-old Jaydon Washington James was killed in Wood End, Coventry, on Saturday night (November 24).
Jaydon, who attended Foxford School and Arts Community College, was with friends in Deedmore Road just before midnight when they were attacked.
As we reported, Jaydon later died in hospital and his friends also sustained serious but not life-threatening injuries.
Tributes have flooded in from family and friends with murals and flowers left near the scene of the crime.
Foxford headteacher Ruth Williamson wrote on the school’s website: “On Saturday, a year eleven student from our school, Jaydon James, died after he was fatally wounded during an incident in the Wood End area of the city.
“Jaydon was one of the most well-liked and popular students in the school.
“He was loyal, caring and his friends knew that they could rely upon him.
“He was a bright, respectful student with a big personality and a full member of our school community.
“The tragic news of Jaydon’s death has been a shock to all members of the school and Jaydon’s family are at the forefront of our minds.
“Our staff have been working with partner agencies to make sure that all members of the school are supported at this difficult time.”
Ms Williamson also sent a letter to parents expressing sadness and shock on behalf of those at the school.
She said students have been given counselling and psychological support from teachers, Coventry City Council and the police.
She said further support will be offered whenever it is needed.
Students and teachers at the school have also started a ‘book of condolence’ to go to Jaydon’s grieving family.
Police say they have officers working around the clock to bring justice to Jaydon’s family, and are appealing for information.
Jaydon’s sister Jayda paid tribute yesterday on Facebook, writing: “I can’t believe my little baby brother is gone forever. Jaydon was the sweetest, funniest most kind-hearted boy.
“He didn’t fight, he wasn’t part of a ‘gang’, he was friends with everyone and tried to keep the peace whenever he could.
“Jaydon was stabbed to death because of his postcode, because he was a Wood End boy.
“I can’t believe someone took my brother’s life simply because of the neighbourhood he lived in.
“On behalf of me and my family I would like to thank everyone for all the kind posts and messages we have read them all and it has brought us some happiness to know how loved Jaydon was.
“And thank you to the boys that stuck by Jaydon’s side and waited for help to arrive and made sure me and my mum was aware.
“All we want to do now is find out who took Jaydon’s life, so we can seek justice.
“If you have any idea who any of the GROWN MEN were that we’re involved in the incident that took place in Wood End last night, please message me or call 101 and you can report it anonymously.
“These men are murderers. Please help us get #Justice4Jaydon”
