A “gentle giant” rugby player who was stabbed to death in a knife frenzy outside a nightclub has been described as “one of the nicest guys around”.
Michael Allen, 36, was killed a stabbing that saw seven others injured near the Eclipse Nightclub in Cornwall at around 3.15am on Sunday (April 30).
Five people have since been released and two remain in hospital as they recover from surgery following the attack. They are not believed to be in life-threatening conditions.
A 24-year-old man from Bodmin has been arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
This morning, police were granted a further 36-hour extension to detain and question the suspect. His family paid tribute to Michael, who was known as Mike, today saying he was "much-loved".
The said in a statement through police: “Mike was simply much-loved son, brother, grandson, and uncle who loved his dogs. His family would like to respectfully request privacy at this time”.
Pals paid tribute to Michael, known as Mike, online. The popular rugby player was described as someone who "made everyone laugh".
They wrote online: "Gentle giant you were an amazing and loving guy. you never said a bad word about anyone RIP Big Mike."
A second wrote: "Shocking news thoughts go to his family and all that know Mike RIP mate. we had some class times together I won’t ever forget!
"You never failed to make everyone laugh and always helped anyone out whenever you could. Thanks for all the laughs and awesome memories you will be missed by all."
Another added: "Rip Mike one of the nicest guys around can’t believe it so sorry to all his friends and family gutted rest easy Mike xx."
A tribute site has been set up at Bodmin Rugby Club, where people can gather to remember Mike. Local officers will also be there to help support the local community and this community hub will run from 4-6pm today and then twice daily from 10am-midday and 4-6pm for the next week, The Mirror reports.
Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson from the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “Our investigation continues into this matter, and we continue to ask the public for their help.
“If you have any information that relating to this murder and have yet to have spoken with the police, please come forward immediately. The information to have, no matter how small you may feel it could be, could be vital to our investigation.”
- If you witnessed the incident or have any information, including footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police via the Major Incident Public Portal by clicking here.
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