A teenage boy stabbed to death by a gang of thugs in a south Dublin park has been named locally.
Tragic Azzam Raguragui was walking home from evening prayers at a local mosque on Friday evening when he was attacked by a gang of youths at Finsbury Park, Dundrum.
The 18-year-old was rushed to St James's Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
Gardai have now launched a murder investigation and are seeking public help in finding Azzam's killers.
Three different crime scenes have been preserved in the area around Finsbury Park.
Azzam, known locally to his pals as 'Azzi', was a popular young man in the Dundrum area.
Special prayers in his memory will be held at the Sufi Mosque on Talbot Street on Saturday night.
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In a statement, a spokesman for the Irish Sufi Foundation said on Saturday: "Just received the devastating and heartbreaking news that our young brother Azzam was set on by a gang of thugs and stabbed to death in a Dundrum park last night.
"Azzam was a kind, courteous, respectful and cheerful young man who always had a smile on his face.
"He was bright, talented and ambitious with aspirations to become a successful entrepreneur. Such a tragic loss. A wonderful young life full of potential cut short.
"My deepest condolences to Azzam's parents and family.
"May Allah give his parents and family patience during this difficult time.
"To Allah we belong and to him is our return."
His cousin Younes Talibi posted on a GoFundMe page: "My dear cousin Azzam, you'll be highly missed.
Another pal wrote on Facebook: "We were all saddened to hear about the news of Our brother Azzam who was stabbed yesterday by some criminals in around the Dundrum area.
"We all remember Azzams beautiful character and smile, we were also comforted with the fact that his Father and Mother were pleased with him and in that alone there is a glad tiding."
"May Allah grant him the highest place in paradise, forgive his sins and give strength to his family and friends."
Gardai are seeking to speak with anyone who was in the area when the incident occurred at around 8.10pm.
It is understood from initial enquiries that a number of people were in the vicinity at the time.
A post mortem examination is expected to be carried out on Saturday.
The scene is currently preserved and a full Garda technical examination will take place this morning.
Anyone who witnessed this incident or who have information is asked to contact the incident room at Dundrum Garda Station on 01- 666 5600, the Garda Confidential Line 1800-666-111 or any Garda Station.
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