Tributes have poured in for a Bootle dad who was shot dead with a crossbow in a street attack described by detectives as an "appalling act" of violence.
Lee Gerrard Atkins died in the early hours of Monday, May 6, after being found severely injured in Monfa Road , Bootle .
A Home Office post mortem revealed the 38-year-old died of abdominal bleeding after being shot with a crossbow.
In a heartbreaking tribute , issued by Merseyside Police on behalf of Lee's mum Debbie Atkins, his family remembered him as a "larger than life character".
Debbie said: “Lee was a larger than life character. He loved going to the gym and he was such a funny lad, he would banter with anyone.
“ Lee had a heart of gold and he looked after his Nan every day. His Nan is missing him so much. We are all devastated to lose Lee in such tragic circumstances, we will always love him and miss him.
“Lee is survived by his daughter Courtney who he loved spending time with. I’d like to thank the people who cared for Lee in his final moments and I’ve been comforted by all the lovely comments people have posted on social media.
"I’d also like to thank everyone who has donated to Lee’s GoFundMe page. This will help the family to pay for Lee’s funeral.”
Debbie's message of thanks to people for their support prompted an outpouring of tributes to Lee on social media.
Gwladys Mercer said: "RIP Lee. Will always remember you, thoughts and prayers to your mum and your nan at this sad time. God bless."
Lisa Cooke said: "Sleep tight big man. That big smile and mad laugh will be sadly missed. Thinking of all the family. Gone but not forgotten Lee. RIP mate."
Catherine Pye said: "Very sad - sorry for all the family. God bless you mate. Prayers are with you RIP."
Alissa Randall said: "Rest in peace young man, my thoughts for your loved ones and friends."
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Kathleen Tarbuck said: "So sad. Thoughts are with his family and friends RIP Lee."
A crossbow was recovered by Merseyside Police officers and two men were arrested on suspicion of murder. Both men remain in custody.
Police patrols had been called to the area following reports of an "altercation" and men had been heard arguing in the street in the moments before, a neighbour said.
The results of a Home Office post mortem revealed Mr Atkins' death was the result of abdominal bleeding "due to a deep penetrating wound to the abdomen consistent with a crossbow discharge".
A blue and white evidence tent was erected outside a property, with green tarpaulin also protecting a nearby section of road and pavement.
A 41-year-old man from Bootle was arrested on suspicion of murder at the scene, while a 49-year-old man, also from Bootle, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Monday night.
Appealing for information on Monday, Det Chief Insp Gayle Rooney said: “We’re currently in the very early stages of the investigation into this incident and it is vital that anyone with information that could assist our enquiries gets in touch.
“This is a truly shocking crime which has occurred in a residential area, and a man has tragically lost his life in an appalling act of violence.
“You may have witnessed part of the incident or suspicious behaviour in the area and any information, no matter how small, may prove vital to our investigation.
“Likewise, if you have any CCTV or dashcam footage, please contact us.”
*Anyone with information can contact Merseyside Police’s social media desk via Twitter (@MerPolCC) or Facebook (Merseyside Police CC). They can also call 101, quoting incident reference 19100224604, or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. The charity also has on online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.
