A pensioner who was ‘punched and killed by a teenager’ has been described as ‘one of the kindest people’ in an emotional tribute by his family.
Jim Davis, aged 73, died last Friday night two days after a teenager allegedly punched him in his hometown of Cheltenham on Honeybourne Way.
He is said to have confronted them on the Millennium Bridge after they allegedly thre a branch off the edge at a cyclist below on Wednesday night. One of them allegedly punched him in the face after an exchange.
He was rushed to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital by paramedics but sadly died two days later.
His family released a heartfelt tribute last night along with a picture of him.
In a statement, they said: ‘We as a family are devastated by the loss of Jimmy. He was a friend to so many, but to me and my family he was a much-loved uncle, brother and brother-in-law.
‘Jimmy was one of the kindest people anyone could have the pleasure of meeting, he was caring, compassionate, and always putting others first.
‘He made sure no one around him ever felt alone, and his love of motorcycles brought him into contact with many people, forming friendships wherever he went.
Jim Davis, 73, was killed after he was allegedly punched by teenagers last Wednesday night
Mr Davis was allegedly punched while confronting two teens who had thrown a large branch off the Millennium Bridge (pictured) in Cheltenham at a cyclist travelling on the road below
‘With a natural warmth and a gift for storytelling, he shared his life with great joy and, in doing so, touched a remarkable number of lives.
‘Our lives will never be the same without him, and we know that many others will share in the sadness we feel.’
Police rushed to the scene after they were called about a serious assault on Honeybourne Way at around 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 8.
Two teenage boys aged 16 and 17 were arrested on suspicion of murder after initially being arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm before Mr Davis’ death.
No further action is being taken against the 16-year-old, but the 17-year-old remains on police bail while enquiries continue.
The Major Crime Investigations Team have now taken on Mr Davis’ murder investigation.
Detectives have appealed for witnesses to come forward and contact the police with any information they may have. This can be handed over to police by completing their online form and quoting incident 430 of April 8 or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously.
