The family of a teenager who died after a stabbing have paid tribute to a “compassionate, loving and funny young man” who had a “bright future ahead of him”.
Matthew Daulby, 19, from Liverpool, died in hospital following an “altercation” in Ormskirk town centre in Lancashire.
Detectives have now opened a murder investigation.
Police were called to an “ongoing disturbance” in Railway Road at 12.05am on Saturday, and Matthew was found nearby. A second 19-year-old man was also treated in hospital for stab injuries, which are not thought to be life-threatening.
His family said: “Matthew was the most compassionate, loving and funny young man with a bright future ahead of him.
“He adored his family, and cared for them with utmost loyalty. He loved spending time with them and gave his love so generously, making sure everyone knew how much he loved them.
“He had a zest for life and was always looking forward to holidays with his family and friends. He was surrounded by love from his family and we will miss him every day, for the rest of our lives.”
A post-mortem examination to establish the cause of Matthew’s death will take place “in due course”, Lancashire Constabulary said.
A 19-year-old man from Liverpool and a 19-year-old man from Melling, in Merseyside, have been arrested on suspicion of affray and remain in police custody.
Detectives looking to identify a number of people
The arrests relate to an altercation in Railway Road involving a number of males, police said.
Officers are asking for anyone with information, or CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage which could help their investigation, to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fallows, from the force’s major investigation team, said it was being treated as an “isolated incident” despite the earlier fight in Railway Road.
He said: “This incident has resulted in a young man losing his life and first and foremost my thoughts are with Matthew’s loved ones at this time.”
