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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Dan Haygarth

Dad won't get to see baby grow up after Liverpool 'failed him'

Tributes have been paid to shooting victim Sam Rimmer on what would have been his 23rd birthday.

Sam was fatally shot on Lavrock Bank, Dingle on August 16, 2022. Four people have so far been arrested in connection with his death and remain on police bail.

To mark today's date, Sam's mum released a tribute to her son. The tribute said: "Today, Sam would have been celebrating his 23rd birthday.

READ MORE: Son describes 'doomsday' hospital scenes after dad's suspected heart attack

"Sam loved his birthday and the day was a special family occasion as he shared his birthday with me, his mum.

"Every birthday Sam would say ‘happy birthday Mumzy’ and it breaks my heart to know I will never hear those words again. Sam was funny, caring and loyal. He was the life and soul of every party and his laugh was infectious.

"His birthday is an unbearable reminder that Sam was cruelly stolen from us and we will never hear him laugh again.

"This month Sam was due to be a father and he was so excited about having a baby boy. It brings the family comfort that a part of Sam will live on, however, the devastating reality is baby Sam will never feel his dads’ arms around him or know how it feels to hear his dad’s laughter.

"Sam’s death has broken our family and we will never recover. He made an impact on anyone he met. If you knew Sam, you loved him. Sam, we love and miss you so much. Fly high and watch over your son and us all.

"We will not rest until justice is served. Love always your devastated and broken-hearted family."

ECHO readers have responded to the tribute, leaving their own comments to Sam. On the ECHO website, user rightthen said: "Rest in peace mate, I’m sorry our city failed you".

User Dendot added: "Hope this poor kid's family get justice, there are too many of these cases hanging over families now".

On Facebook, Susan Ford said: "Happy heavenly birthday Sam, my thoughts are with his family and friends today. Fly high with the angels young man. RIP" Dawn Winks said: "Sending love to you all on this very sad day xx".

Joanne Birch said: "Thinking of all the family", while Terri Louise Doyle commented: "Happy heavenly birthday Sam, my thoughts are with your family and friends today, fly high with the angels forever young".

Mandy Bevan said: "Heartbreaking reading this and so young. Can't imagine the family's pain." Colette Moore added: "Thinking of you all".

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