Sister’s heartbreaking tribute to ‘strong, kind and funny’ DJ Tom Roberts, 21, stabbed to death outside Subway
THE devastated family of a man who was stabbed to death outside a Subway sandwich shop have paid tribute to the “strong, kind and funny” DJ.
Detectives launched the probe after Tom Roberts, 21, was knifed on Bournemouth’s nightclub strip in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Tom was rushed to hospital after the fatal attack in the early hours of Saturday morning, but later died of his wounds.
Police have arrested a 16-year-old boy on suspicion of his murder, who remains in custody as officers continue to quiz him.
Family of the local DJ, who had dreamed of becoming a Royal Marine, have said they are “heartbroken” by his tragic death and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
His sister Patti Roberts said: "He was such a strong, kind and funny person. I didn't see him as a man because to me he was still that cheeky, mischievous brother that brought so much life into the room.
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"We can't begin to comprehend what has happened to him.
"His future was going to be bright. He wanted to be a marine. He was in a beautiful relationship with his girlfriend and they were supposed to be going on holiday this week.
"He had so many people in his life that loved him. And now he's gone."
A large park in the area has been cordoned off after the fatal attack, and forensics are still scouring the area.
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His family said that he had been so "excited" to go to his sister's wedding in June to see his family again after two years of the pandemic.
Miss Roberts appealed for any witnesses or anyone who has dashcam footage around the time and location of the fatal stabbing to come forward.
She added: "Anyone that carries a knife should be made aware of the devastating consequences.
"So please, if anyone has any information about the incident, come forward."
His mum Dolores Wallace added: "My heart is breaking after losing my son Tommy yesterday to a senseless act of murder.
"It's been just over 24 hours of him being gone and it still doesn't seem real.
"He was only 21 years old. He wanted to be a marine. We miss him so deeply and he deserves justice."
Detective Inspector Simon Huxter, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, added: "A full and detailed investigation is underway into this incident and our thoughts are with the victim’s family at this very difficult time
"I would urge anyone who saw what happened and has not yet spoken to officers to please contact Dorset Police immediately
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"I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed what happened, or captured anything of relevance on home CCTV or dashcam, to please come forward.
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"As we undertake our early investigations, a cordon remains in place to allow officers and crime scene investigators to carry out their examinations. I would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while this vital work takes place.
"Members of the public will see an increased police presence in the area over the coming days and officers from the local neighbourhood policing team can be approached with any concerns."
