A “perfect family” was torn apart when the Plymouth gunman killed a father and his adopted young daughter.
As the community held a vigil for the victims last night, tributes were paid to Lee Martyn, 43, and three-year-old Sophie – described as the “cutest, sweetest little girl”.
Lee, who also had a son with wife Becky, is thought to have been walking home with her when Davison targeted them with a pump-action shotgun.
Lee’s brother Scott Martyn confirmed on Facebook that his “brother and niece” had been killed. Replying to a friend, Scott said: “Thanks for your kind words. I’m sure I’ll cry sooner or later.”
The neighbour added: “It’s just so awful. They were a perfect family. The sort you see in adverts. I can’t believe this has happened.
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“Sophie was just the sweetest, cutest, little girl. So, so lovely. This is absolutely devastating for Becky and for Sophie’s brother. Davison destroyed something so beautiful when he killed Lee and Sophie.”
A friend described Lee as a “true gentleman”, adding: “Needless waste of two beautiful lives.
“A true gentleman and wonderful human being. Love goes out to all.”
Another friend said: “Lost for words. You were such a kind selfless gentleman who put everyone else before yourself.
"We have shared many memories together. I will never forget the things in life you have done for me, you will forever be in my heart, Lee.”
In a message posted with a family picture on Facebook two years ago, Lee, who worked for Toshiba in Plymouth, revealed the family had successfully adopted Sophie.
He wrote: “We finally adopted Sophie after nearly 15 months! Game changer.”
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Lee’s wife Becky is believed to be an intensive care nurse at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, where some of those injured were rushed for treatment.
It it is not known whether she had been at work at the time.
The other victims were Davison’s mum Maxine, 51, dog walker Stephen Washington, 59, and Kate Shepherd, 66.
Mr Washington’s son Simon revealed the family were feeling “lost” following the tragedy.
In a post on Facebook, he added: “My mum lost her world, my kids and brothers and sisters’ kids lost their grandad.
“Each and every one of us will miss him deeply. RIP, Dad, you will be missed, love you.”
Neighbours said Mr Washington was walking his two huskies along a tree-lined path near the Davisons’ home when he was shot.
Mike Moore, who lives nearby, said: “Both the dogs ran back to Stephen’s home and that’s when the family became concerned. Stephen was well known around here because he was always out with his dogs.
"He wasn’t friends with Jake and there’s nothing connecting them.”
Davison also opened fire on Ben Parsonage, 33, and mum Michelle, 53.
Ben’s brother Jordan called it a “horrific situation” but confirmed they were out of danger.
He posted on Facebook: “Ben is now home and going to make a full recovery.
"My mum has to have an operation on her arm and is expected to make a full recovery.
"I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who messaged and called about their concerns about my family.
“It really means a lot. This is a very difficult situation and we need to stand together to keep the peace.”
Almost 1,000 locals last night gathered at the candelit vigil in a park.
Father Richard Silk called the support from the community “extraordinary”, adding: “It’s just that sense of showing some kind of honour to all those who have lost their lives and those in hospital and those bereaved.
“It shows we are with you and want to help you heal with the community.”
Flags were flying at half-mast in the city and the council set out plans for tributes, including a minute’s silence at 11am on Monday.
Books of condolence are available for the public to sign.
A civic service led by the Bishop of Plymouth will be held at the Minster Church of St Andrew on Wednesday.
Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer urged those people who had witnessed the atrocity to seek support.
The council is working with police and organisations such as Barnardo’s and the Red Cross to offer assistance
Nick Kelly, leader of the council, said: “This is a city with a reputation for being friendly, for being safe.
"It will be some time before we know the whole story but we do know Plymouth people have a history of coming together to support each other.”
