The grandson of The Specials singer, Neville Staple, has been stabbed to death outside a Coventry nightclub.
Fidel Anderson – the son of Mr Staple’s daughter Melanie – was knifed in the stomach behind the city’s Club M in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The 21-year-old was taken to hospital but died there, West Midlands Police said. A second man, aged 23, is still being treated after being found with stab wounds in the same area. A man, also 23, has been arrested and remained in police custody on Sunday morning.
Taking to Facebook just hours after the incident, Mr Staple – a founding member of the legendary Coventry ska band – wrote: “We are truly devastated to announce the heart-breaking loss of my grandson Fidel, who died today as a result of being attacked with a knife in the street.
“We want to thank the hospital staff and surgeons at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, who battled all day to try and save him.
“My beautiful daughter Melanie and wife Christine Sugary, all the family and myself are still shocked by this tragedy, but would like to thank you all for the kindness and messages we have received.”
Detective Inspector Harry Harrison, from the homicide unit, said: “Sadly another young man has lost his life in a knife attack. Our thoughts are with his family at this dreadful time.
“We are aware that numerous people who were at the club at the time could have witnessed what happened and I would urge them to contact us with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.”
Mr Staple, 63, was a member of The Specials between 1977 and 1984 when they first split up, and performed on hits including A Message to You Rudy and Free Nelson Mandela. He now tours with his own band and makes occasional appearances with the reformed Specials.
