The family of a man who died after being allegedly beaten with a cricket bat following a robbery have paid tribute to him.
Derek Whyteside, 42, died hours after being attacked in Telford, Shropshire, on Monday. A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has since appeared in Kidderminster magistrates court charged with his murder.
“Derek was a nice guy, he was loveable and could always see the best in people and if he considered you a friend he would strive never to let you down,” his relatives said in a statement released by West Mercia police.
“He would always be there for you and was very proud of his extended family. He was a fab dad to his partner’s children, very protective, cheeky and loving and always meant well. He was Michelle’s world and was so good to her. He was a great brother, too. We can’t understand why anyone would do this.”
Whyteside’s partner, Michelle Beddall, alleged on Facebook that he had been hit on the head with a cricket bat. Hours earlier, she had sought help in tracing a group of people she said had stolen bikes outside her house.
The investigation is being led by Det Insp Mark Bellamy. He said: “Our thoughts are with the family at this time and we offer them our deepest sympathy, we continue to have specially trained officers offering them support and will continue to do so throughout our investigation.
“The local community will play a significant role in our enquiries and, while I am grateful for the people who have already come forward and spoken to us, this is now a murder investigation and it is vitally important anyone who has any information and has not yet spoken to us gets in contact.”
The 16-year-old appeared before magistrates on Thursday. Two men arrested in connection with the incident were released on police bail. A woman and two teenage boys were released under investigation, West Mercia police said.
