Two 16-year-old boys have been arrested on suspicion of murdering a 51-year-old man, Sussex Police said yesterday (Wednesday 28 August).
Both have been released on bail, with detectives again appealing for help from the public as they continue their investigation – known as Operation Sett – into the death of 51-year-old Paul Lawrence in January.
Mr Lawrence, a father and grandfather who worked as a plumber and gas engineer, died after an incident in Gladonian Road, Littlehampton, not far from his home in Cheal Way.
He suffered a cardiac arrest but paramedics called police because he had a head injury that gave rise to suspicion. It is believed that he was punched and fell into the road.
One of the 16-year-old boys was arrested on the day that Mr Lawrence died while the other was arrested more recently.
Sussex Police said: “A second suspect has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a man in Littlehampton as detectives continue to appeal for information.
“Fifty-one-year-old local man Paul Lawrence was tragically killed in Gladonian Road in the early hours of Sunday 28 January 2024.
“Following inquiries, a 16-year-old boy from Littlehampton was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed with conditions until Thursday 10 October, pending further enquiries.
“A second 16-year-old boy from Littlehampton has now also been arrested on suspicion of murder and malicious communications offences. He has been bailed with conditions until Wednesday 9 October.”
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “We remain committed to seeking justice for Paul and his family and we’re still urging anyone with any information to please come forward.
“If you know what happened on the morning Paul tragically lost his life, or if you have any information that can assist in our investigation, you can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Sett.
“You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or report it online.
“In the meantime, I’d like to remind the public that this is an active investigation and advise them to refrain from speculating or posting anything on social media that could prejudice the right to a fair trial.”
Shortly after Mr Lawrence died, his daughters Louise and Josephine said in a statement: “Paul was a much-loved son, brother, father and grandfather.
“He was a family man who devoted his life to his children and grandchildren, and he was immensely proud of everything they achieved.
“He was a gentle soul, full of happiness and loved by all who knew him.
“Paul was a true representation of what every man should be or should aspire to be. Kind, generous, and always laughing or smiling, with the most reassuring smiley eyes.
“Our Dad was our hero, our strength, our everything.
“Not only has he lost out on special memories watching his grandchildren grow up; they have also had the best grandad in the world taken from them.
“We could go on forever listing all the great things about him but, ultimately, no words will ever be enough to describe the impact of our loss.
“Every second spent with you and every memory we hold will be forever cherished. Words cannot describe how much we love you Dad. All we can hope for is justice.”
Mr Lawrence’s brother and sister John and Shelley said: “Paul was the kindest man who would help anyone. He would light up the darkest of rooms with his smile and cheeky laugh.
“We are honoured to say that Paul Lawrence was our brother. Our hearts are not only broken but they’re totally ripped apart.”
His mother, Marie, said: “My lovely son, Paul, I’m really broken. I loved him so much. I can’t visualise this world without him.”
And his step-daughter Chloe said: “I could go on for days about why Paul was such a special and endearing person but his number one quality for me has to and always will be his ability to love me as his own.
“It takes a great man to be a dad but it takes an even greater man to be a step-dad.”
