A teenage boy who died following a knife attack in Gateshead has been remembered as a "loyal friend" and a "talented footballer" by those who knew him at school.
Tomasz Oleszak, 14, tragically died on Tuesday morning following a suspected assault on Monday night at the Whitehills Nature Park in the Springwell area of Gateshead. Northumbria Police were called to the scene at around 8pm and found the teenager had suffered an injury consistent with having been caused by a bladed article.
Tomasz was taken to hospital but tragically died in the early hours of Tuesday morning. A murder investigation has been launched and a 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. A 13-year-old girl was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and also remains in custody.
READ MORE: Gateshead school Cardinal Hume speaks out after 14-year-old boy is allegedly murdered
Dozens of flowers have been left at the entrance to the nature park in memory of Thomasz and now Cardinal Hume Catholic School has paid tribute to their "charismatic and engaging" pupil.
Headteacher Brendan Robson said: "Cardinal Hume Catholic School community is deeply saddened and shocked by the death of Tomasz Oleszak following the incident in the local area on Monday evening. No parent, no family, no friend, no school, no community, should have to deal with such news and understandably we are all shaken by this tragic event.
"As a much loved and treasured pupil, Tomasz was a dedicated and committed young man who was the life and soul of his friendship group. Tomasz was charismatic and engaging, always displaying a great sense of humour."
The school said it is supporting Thomasz's family, classmates, and teachers as they struggle to process the tragedy.
Mr Robson said Thomasz was a talented footballer and will be remembered for his warmth and positive personality.
"He was a loyal friend who others could turn to," Mr Robson said.
"As a talented footballer and wonderful team player, he has been described by his friends as 'someone you'd always want to have on your team.' The staff will remember his warmth, energy and positive personality.
"He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
"In the challenging times ahead, our priority is to do everything we can to care for and support Tomasz’s family, our students, and staff, who are, understandably, struggling to process this tragic event.”
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