The family of a teen who was stabbed to death while trying to protect his mum have paid touching tribute to their "mischievous, funny and cheeky boy".
Jakub Szymanski, 15, died in hospital on Thursday night following a double stabbing in Manchester.
It is believed he stepped in to protect his mum, Katarzyna Bastek, when a man launched a brutal attack on her, the Manchester Evening News reported.
Ms Bastek, who is in her 40s, was hurt but is recovering in hospital. A 44-year-old man was arrested in Kent on Friday night on suspicion of murder, police said.
In a touching statement released by Greater Manchester Police, Jakub's family said: "Jakub was lovingly known as Kuba to his family and Jakub to his friends.
“He was always a popular child making friends wherever he went due to his friendly and chatty nature.
"He always spoke his mind, he was mischievous, funny and a cheeky boy. He loved his Xbox and football, supporting Manchester City.
"He was like every other teenage boy and was helpful to so many people, even those he just met. To our family, he's our hero."
Police have said that the suspect is thought to be known to the victims and as of tonight (Saturday) he remains in custody for questioning.
Detectives continue to work “around the clock” following the horrific incident and investigations at the scene continued today. GMP officers will be in the area across the weekend.
Det Chief Insp Alicia Smith, from GMP’s Major Incident Team, said: "We're still continuing with our investigation and last night's arrest has been a huge step in potentially getting a grieving family the answers they so badly need.
"A teenage boy who had his whole life ahead of him has tragically lost his life and not only is his mother grieving at the loss of her son, but she is also recovering from what will have been no doubt, hugely traumatic.
"We would still like to hear from anyone with any information, or anyone who may have seen anything."
Friends have set up a fundraising page to support his family.
Friend Liam Welsh said Jakub and his brothers were "family". Along with girlfriend Danielle Baker, he has set up a fundraiser to help Yakub's loved ones.
Liam, also from Miles Platting, said: "It's to cover the costs of the funeral. It's also to put them at ease and to help them out financially.
"They were all part of the family. Everything we raise will be going straight to his mum."
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at gmp.police.uk or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
