Tributes to ‘devoted dad’ and ‘cheeky chap’ killed in triple stabbing, as devastated families share photos

TRIBUTES have been paid to a “devoted dad” and a “cheeky chap” who were both killed in a triple stabbing.

Adam Fanelli, 39, and Patrick Howard, 27, died from stab wounds after being stabbed in Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire.

Cops and paramedics raced to the scene following reports of a hit and run early on Sunday morning.

The two men were pronounced dead at the scene, while a third was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

In a tribute, Adam’s family said: “Words could never explain the impact this tragedy has had, and will forever hold, over our family and this community.

“Our thoughts and prayers of strength are with the other families involved.

“Adam was undoubtedly a loving and devoted dad to his three wonderful children. For someone small in stature he had an extremely larger than life character and a heart bigger than a house.

“He was a person that emulated ‘once met never forgotten’ in every way possible. He’s going to be missed eternally, leaving a void that could never be filled.

“The family would like to thank everyone for their messages of support and beautiful tributes to both Adam and Pat.”

Also paying tribute, Patrick’s family said: “Patrick was the most lovable, cheeky chap you could meet.

“He would have done anything for anybody and had the biggest heart of gold.

“He was the heart and soul of the community, with not a person who didn’t love him.

“Patrick will be missed immensely and has left such a hole in too many hearts. If love could have saved Patrick, he would have lived forever.

“Adam’s family will forever be in our hearts and prayers.”

‘BRUTAL ATTACK’

Two men have been charged and a has been third arrested as police continue their investigation into the deaths.

Nicholas Papworth, 31, of Amble Close, Houghton Regis, and Curtis Long, 32, of Hallwicks Road, Luton, are each charged with two offences of murder, one of attempted murder, three of conspiracy to murder and three of conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm.

Papworth was also charged with perverting the course of justice.

On Wednesday, detectives arrested a third man in his 40s on suspicion of two murders and one of attempted murder.

Detective Superintendent Carl Foster, from the Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of both Adam and Patrick, we also wish the third victim a full and speedy recovery.

“I wish to renew my thanks to everyone who has come forward with information so far.

“Our enquires into the events leading up to this fatal stabbing are ongoing, and we are still keen to hear from anyone that can support our investigation.

“This is an extremely violent incident that has taken place in a community that has been greatly affected.

“We are committed to ensuring anyone involved in this brutal attack is brought to justice.”