The grieving mother of a 20-year-old man who was stabbed to death in Dukinfield has paid a touching tribute to "a lovely, hardworking, kind and respectful boy".
Dylan Keelan was fatally stabbed at around 9.30pm on Cheetham Hill Road on Friday evening (4 February).
In a moving statement issued through Greater Manchester Police, Dylan's mum Nicola said: "Dylan, my son, was a lovely, hardworking, kind and respectful boy.
"He absolutely loved his family and close friends. Dylan will be missed dearly by everyone who had the pleasure to be around him. He will never be forgotten and will always be in my heart and part of my life. It is difficult to put into words at this moment as I am broken and distraught.
"I just want to say thank you to everyone for their support, kind words and donations.
"Finally, in Dylan's own words 'Always find a way to turn a negative into a positive', so let's all stay strong together."
Four teenage boys were arrested on suspicion of murder. Police say two remain in custody for questioning, whilst two have been released under investigation.
Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information or dash cam footage from the surrounding area at around the time of the incident is asked to contact police.
The Major Incident Public Portal has been opened to receive information, images or footage. It can be accessed here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S44-PO1.
Detective Inspector Lee Shaw, of GMP's Major Incident Team, said: "Our thoughts are with Dylan's loved ones - specialist colleagues are liaising with them.
"We have two suspects in custody but our investigation is very much ongoing so I appeal to anyone who can assist us in any way, shape or form to get in touch.
"Extra officers remain in the area to reassure the community whilst exercising their powers to carry out increased stops and searches under Section 60."
Anyone with information should contact police, quoting 2866 of 04/02/22, via 0161 856 6300, gmp.police.uk, https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S44-PO1 or 101. Alternatively, get in touch with the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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