The devastated family of a teenage dad who was stabbed to death on Easter Monday paid tribute to him today, saying "he just wanted to belong."
Relatives of Kyle Whitley have been left reeling since the 18-year-old was killed in Litherland.
The teen, who had a seven-month-old son, was "loved and valued", they said, adding the "world was a sadder place without him," for his family.
In a statement, they said: "As a family we are devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of our much loved Kyle.
"It has been such a terrible shock for our family and our hearts are heavy with grief and sadness.
"Kyle was such a kind, funny yet mischievous son and brother, and with much love from all of his family, he truly brightened up the atmosphere of any place whenever he was around.
"The world is a sadder place for all of us without him… he just wanted to belong.
"We realise now more than ever, how loved and valued he was by those who knew him and loved him, including his true friends."
Kyle, who enjoyed walking his dog, was attacked on Vincent Road and died after being stabbed once to his chest.
The tragic incident has prompted many of the former Bankfield School pupil's friends to call for an end to people carrying knives around Merseyside.
The Whitley family added: "It is hard to describe just how much Kyle meant to us all as a family, no one can compare to him.
"We will always love and miss him.
"Fly high with your big brother now Kyle, and please keep smiling."
The family also praised those who tried to help the 18-year-old after he was stabbed.
Relatives said: "We would really like to thank all of the people who tried so hard to help save Kyle.
"We are forever grateful to every single person who showed him kindness and compassion when he really needed it, and we are so appreciative of all the lovely comments that people have posted on social media for Kyle."
So far, three people have been arrested in connection with Kyle's death.
They are a boy, 17, who has been released on bail, another boy, 17, who was arrested yesterday, and a man, 23.
All were quizzed on suspicion of murder.
The 23 year-old man has now been released on conditional bail. The 17 year-old arrested yesterday remains in custody.
