Man, 26, stabbed to death at pub on Boxing Day as friends pay emotional tribute

A man has died after being stabbed during an "altercation" at a pub on Boxing Day.

The 26-year-old victim, who has been named locally as Coley Byrne, was knifed inside the Gypsy Queen pub in Sheffield on Sunday night.

A spokesman for South Yorkshire Police said the force was called at around 10pm and the victim died in hospital despite the best efforts of medics.

Flowers have been left at the scene and detectives and forensic investigators have been pictured around the pub, Yorkshire Live reports.

A number of people have taken to Facebook to pay tribute to Mr Byrne.

Kyle Rayworth wrote: "Still can’t believe it. You're going to be missed mate, such a cruel world we live in."

Another friend, Ash Broughton, posted: "Waking up this morning to find out you have passed has devastated me."

The Gypsy Queen Pub in Sheffield (Google Maps)

He said Mr Byrne was "one of the most real men I have had the pleasure of calling my friend" and was "always smiling, always chilling and (it) was always good to see your face".

He wrote: "Heaven has gained an amazing man. It’s just heartbreaking that your time wasn’t done on Earth. You were taken too soon my brother."

Another friend Olly Bradbury posted saying that Mr Byrne was "always one to remember, especially that cheeky grin", before adding: "Everyone gonna miss you bruv. Fly high."

One friend posted a picture of Mr Byrne and said: "What a good guy", before adding: "We had some laughs."

Nicole Sheldon said: "I literally have no words! Truly heartbreaking and devastating! My heart goes out to your family and babies.

"You will be reunited with your Brad now! Taken way too soon rest in peace Coley Byrne you’ll be missed so much by so many."

There have been no arrests and detectives are appealing for witnesses to a stabbing and are appealing for anyone with information or witnesses to come forward.

DCI Mick Hakin, the officer leading the investigation, said: "We are looking to speak to anyone who may have been in the Gypsy Queen at the time and who may have seen anything that can help us determine exactly what happened which led to the death of a young man."