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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Joe Thomas & Jenny Kirkham

'Loving' man was found dead in alleyway on what would have been his birthday

The body of a man whose death is being treated as murder was discovered dead on what would have been his birthday.

James Richards, who is believed to be a dad, was described by family as "loving and generous", was found in an alley in Kirkdale seven days ago.

Three men and a woman have been questioned on suspicion of his murder.

Read More: Man found dead in alleyway was 'loyal and loving' son 'cut down in his prime'

Mr Richards was discovered in a private passage between homes on Woodbine Street and Harebell Street on the afternoon of Wednesday, September 22.

This was also the date of his 33rd birthday.

His death sparked touching tributes online and on the street close to where he was found, where balloons and bouquets of flowers were left in his memory.

In an emotional statement released on Tuesday, his family said: “A huge hole has been torn in our family. One of our precious ones has been cut down in his prime.

“Brave, loyal, loving and generous, James.

“For just 33 years he brightened our lives and occasionally had our hearts in our mouths, his loss has shattered us all.

“Rest gently our beautiful, bold boy.”

The tribute followed confirmation that Merseyside Police had arrested a fourth suspect.

The 38-year-old, from Liverpool, had been arrested on Monday and remained in custody on Tuesday.

Three others suspects, two men and a woman, have all been released pending further police enquiries.

Floral tributes and balloons on Woodbine Street. (Liverpool Echo)

Detectives believe Mr Richards was the subject of a targeted attack that may have taken place in a different location to the alley in which he was found, and which may have happened on Tuesday night or Wednesday morning.

The results of a post mortem, held to establish the cause of Mr Richards' death, have not yet been made public.

Police have continued to appeal for information that could help the investigation.

*Details can be sent to Merseyside Police via Twitter (@MerPolCC), Facebook (Merseyside Police Contact Centre) or by calling the force on 101, quoting the reference 21000660162.

Drivers can upload dashcam footage to be viewed by police here.

The independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online here

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