Picture released of Staffordshire murder victim as family speak of grief
The family of a man stabbed to death in the street 200 yards from his home in Staffordshire today spoke of their pain.
It comes as a man appeared in court charged with Connan McLeod's murder.
The victim, aged 22, was attacked on the edge of a playing field in Whitemill Lane, Stone, at 12.20am on Saturday. He died at the scene.
Daniel Allott, of Bagots Oak, Stafford, spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth when he appeared at Cannock Magistrates court yesterday.
Mr McLeod's father, Robert McLeod, said: "Words cannot explain how we feel at this moment in time, at the loss of Connan. Family and friends are at a loss for words.
"We would like to thank the police for their quick response and support, also family and friends, and all the people of Staffordshire for sharing the information from the police website, to help bring a conclusion to the incident, also for their words of condolence and support at this tragic time."
Allott was remanded in custody to appear at Stafford Crown Court tomorrow.
Two 20-year-old men remain on police bail while the investigation continues.
Staffordshire Police spokeswoman Emily Clews said they would not face a murder charge but were being questioned about associated offences.
Neighbours spoke of their shock and sadness after the death.
Nigel Warham, 49, who lives with family in Whitemill Lane, was woken by the flashing blue lights of the emergency services at the scene. The father of two said: "We've lived here for 12 years and apart from the sound of lads coming home from the pub sometimes, it's a quiet street."
