A young man killed in Oaklands Park in Chelmsford this afternoon has tonight been named by friends.
Ash Woolley, from Chelmsford, died after he was stabbed in the grounds of the park in Moulsham Street. He was taken to Broomfield Hospital at around 3.15pm, but died a few hours later.
Police have now launched a murder investigation and are keen to trace a suspect, described as white, 6ft tall, of medium build, with light brown hair, and wearing a dark coloured top.
The victim's devastated friends and ex-schoolmates tweeted their shock this evening, and a Facebook page has been set up in his memory.
benedthridge said: "Disgusting the evil in this world, when it happens in a park two minutes from where you live it really puts things in perspective #ripash
Tia MacRae added: When we were close you honestly gave me my favourite and craziest memories of school ash, rip
Olly Barlow wrote: "Don't know what to say, was one of the nicest guys and have so many memories with him, love you ashRIP x
Such an amazing guy, will miss you loads bro! RIP Ash ❤️ pic.twitter.com/d9A1dmjbVx
— Antony Richardson (@Ant96Richardson) December 18, 2014
The area is still cordoned off tonight while forensic examinations are carried out.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Chelmsford CID on 101 or email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk
Did you know Ash? Pay your tributes below or email newsdesk@essexchronicle.co.uk