The family of a teenager who was stabbed to death while trying to protect his mum have paid a heartbreaking tribute to their 'mischievous, funny and cheeky boy'. Jakub Szymanski, 15, died in hospital on Thursday night following a double stabbing in Miles Platting.
It is understood he stepped in to protect his mother Katarzyna Bastek when a man launched an attack. Ms Bastek, who is in her 40s, was hurt and is recovering in hospital. A 44-year-old man was arrested in Kent on Friday night on suspicion of murder, police said.
READ MORE: How we can all help family of boy, 15, who lost his life trying to save his mum from knife attack
In a statement released by 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 say the suspect is believed to be known to the victims. Tonight (Saturday) he remains in custody for questioning.
Detectives have been 'working around the clock' following the incident at a property on Bednal Avenue. Investigations at the scene continued on Saturday, with GMP saying officers will be in the area all 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.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at gmp.police.uk or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
