The family of a man who was killed say the year since his death has been “horrific”.

Dwayne Forrester, who was just 21, was found stabbed in Little Garth, Pitsea at around 8.45pm on July 7, last year. Sadly, he died in hospital later that day.

Five people have been arrested in connection with Dwayne’s death and all have been released under investigation. No charges have been brought.

 

His mum Jackie said: “Every day I have to put a brave face on.

"Sometimes I’m working and it just comes to me and just want to cry and I just have to try to be strong all the time. It’s very frustrating not knowing who’s done it."

His brother Alton said the last 12 months have been hell, adding: "The last year has been horrific. Some of us are still in therapy now. It’s been full of tears and heartache.

"The times when you do feel something it’s actually a bit of a blessing because you actually feel something but, to be honest, it’s that absence of feeling that is the scariest part, it’s that shock.

"The body hasn’t quite recovered from the shock of what’s happened.

"Someone’s life’s been taken away and it could happen to anybody, and it almost seems on the surface like noone cares because noone’s come forward with any information that would see justice served."

Dwayne’s dad, Winston, recalled his last conversation with his son.

He said: "It’s always in my mind the last time what he said to me. He said ‘Dad, what do you want for your birthday?’

"And I said ‘well my birthday’s a long way away’ and he said ‘Yeah, but time doesn’t take long. Time goes quickly’.

"And I’ll always remember that. That’s the last of his voice I can recall.”

Det Sgt James Holmes, from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said: "We’ve carried out a thorough investigation and our enquiries have progressed well but we still need that vital piece of information which can help bring justice.

"To those who know what happened – please examine your conscience. You can see and hear the anguish his family are experiencing.

"You may not have felt you could come forward at the time of Dwayne’s death but a lot changes in a year.

"Allegiances change, loyalties change, and now is an opportunity to put this situation right.

"If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to the police you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously.

"It’s really important we get justice for Dwayne and his family and if you’re the person who can help do that – I, and they, need you to come forward."

If you have any information, contact Essex Police on 101 quoting incident 1418 of 7 July 2018 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk. 

You can also call Crimestoppers 100 percent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or go to www.crimestoppers-uk.org.