…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
The family of Barnaby Webber, the university student who was fatally stabbed, has made a poignant visit to the location where the incident occurred.
Barnaby, aged 19 and a student at the University of Nottingham, lost his life alongside fellow undergraduate Grace O’Malley-Kumar in an incident that took place on Tuesday in the city.
During their visit, the family laid flowers at the spot on Ilkeston Road, emphasizing that their presence serves as a way to let Barnaby and Grace know that they are there for them.
A Statement Expressing Heartbreak and Gratitude:
In a statement released to the PA news agency, Barnaby Webber’s family, who hail from Taunton, Somerset, expressed their profound grief at the devastating loss they have experienced.
They acknowledged the outpouring of sympathy and support from many others who have also expressed their heartbreak.
The family expressed their gratitude towards Nottingham University and the police for their professionalism, diligence, respect, and care during this challenging time.
Moving Forward on a Dark Journey:
The family shared that their visit to the scene, while immensely painful, marks another step forward on the long and arduous journey they have been compelled to undertake.
They emphasized their commitment to honoring the memory of both Barnaby and Grace, acknowledging the profound impact their deaths have had on their lives.
Acknowledging the Support and Condolences:
Earlier in the week, Barnaby Webber’s parents, David and Emma, along with his younger brother Charlie, expressed their devastation over the “senseless murder” of their son.
They described him as a beautiful, brilliant, and bright young man who had a promising future ahead of him.
The family previously attended a vigil for Barnaby in Nottingham’s Old Market Square and extended their gratitude to the people of the city for their support during this trying time.
Remembering Barnaby’s Talents:
Barnaby Webber was not only a dedicated university student but also a talented cricketer.
He played for the Taunton-based Bishops Hull Cricket Club and was a member of the university team.
His skills on the cricket field showcased his passion and commitment to the sport.
Fond Tributes for a Promising Young Man:
As news of Barnaby’s tragic passing spread, tributes poured in from various circles.
A former pupil of Taunton School, where Barnaby had attended, shared a heartfelt tribute in the Old Tauntonians alumni group on Facebook.
The tribute described Barnaby as a wonderful young man with a bright future ahead of him, emphasizing the immense loss caused by his untimely death.