Teen killed in gun tragedy
Tributes have been paid to a 14-year-old boy who died after allegedly shooting himself.
Nearly 2,000 friends have joined three Facebook groups following the death of
The gifted teenager died of a single gunshot wound to the head on Thursday evening in his house in
But a police investigation is still ongoing into what caused the tragedy.
Writing on the Surrey Mirror website, a friend, Jaymee-Lea English wrote: “He was a very liked boy, and everyone misses him so much.”
Becky from Tadworth wrote: “I am so upset, he was such a nice friend I’m going to miss him so much. RIP Liam. We love you so much.”
Merstham councillor, Graeme Crome wrote: “God rest Liam, my prayers are with you and my thoughts are with your family and friends”.
Friends say Liam used to enjoy hunting animals and his family had a gun license – police have confirmed the family were licensed fire arms holders.
A close family friend said Liam wanted to do well in school so he could become a pilot.
He said: “We are very close to the family and I can’t imagine what they’re going through. They must be absolutely devastated. They texted me to tell me what happened and they were just in bits.
“Liam was a lovely boy and did everything by the law. He kept himself to himself and was always reading books. He was desperate to become a pilot.”
The family friend told the Mirror that Liam has two older brothers, Jason and Mark, and an older sister, Laura.
Liam’s family have moved out of their address as police and forensic experts examine the scene of the tragedy, they were believed to have returned yesterday (Monday).
Results from the post mortem carried out at the
An inquest has been opened, and will convene at a later date.
A spokesman for Surrey Police said: “We were called to an address in
“Detectives are still investigating the circumstances around his death, but we can confirm a fire arm was involved.”
Tributes continue to pour in on Facebook groups dedicated to Liam who was “smarter than the other kids in school”.
24 Comments
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by HELEN, Redhill
Sunday, March 21 2010, 4:24PM
“Very, VERY well said R.Dot.
To all the brave 'Anons' out there, if you are indicative of the level of compassion shown towards teenagers and thier families today, is it any wonder these tragedies occur?
What kind of people are you, who look to inflict yet more suffering on a family already ripped down the middle? You cannot un-invent guns, you can only educate your children about them. For what its worth there is no case to answer here; all procedures were followed to the letter.
The answer to this appalling event does not lie in Liam's ability to handle a gun, but in his inability to handle his grief. Its as simple as that.
If you want something to rant about, use your energy in a more positive way and campaign for greater understanding of all the kind, honest, sensitive and intelligent teenagers out there who you no doubt avoid as 'hoodies' and thugs.
As soon as the next bandwagon rolls along, you'll be on it, and this will be quickly forgotten, but Liam's family and friends will live with this for the rest of their lives.
Show some respect, and pray you are never touched by such a tragedy yourself.”
by R.Dot, *RH1*
Saturday, March 20 2010, 11:35PM
“RIP to the boy, and for all you idiot's that are wrighting about licence's fair enough your putting your point across which is wat it's about, but the boys little friends are sendin love so stop the hatin of how it happend, and why it's done your not helping the family, so if u wouldnt mind leaving..
Bless to all you yung 1s keep ya nut up n dnt let no1 put u down..
Bless liam Bro...x”
by ANON, Merstham
Friday, March 19 2010, 10:46PM
“Sorry Lucy, I very much do respect the loss to the family and all his close freinds and most of all a young life, BUT it is the time to discuss how a 14 year old had accesss to a gun when he was on his own. It is a matter that should concern us all, as a gun in the wrong hands could hurt you, me or perhaps a young child. Believe me when you are older with a family of your own you will probably realise this.”
by alisha burdfield, redhill
Friday, March 19 2010, 5:33PM
“Liam i didn,t know we went to merstham primary together until i was told by my mum on friday evening.Everyone here at warwick will miss u. R.I.P Liam Nelson.”
by Lucy, Merstham
Friday, March 19 2010, 9:21AM
“Goodbye sweet boy, hope the angels keep you safe....... I can't imagine how hard it's been for Laura and family...... This is NOT the place to be discussing gun licences or bullying. Please respect the family, and only comment if you are going to send condolences. Many Thanks”