17-year-old son killed at bus station had a ‘beautiful soul’

The mother of a 17-year-old boy who was stabbed to death at a city bus station has said he was a “beautiful soul” and the family are “proud of the young man he is becoming”.

Floral tributes and burning candles have been left at the spot in Bedford where Thomas Taylor was attacked by a group of men at 17:50 GMT on Wednesday.

The Bedford Academy student was taken to hospital but later died.

His mother Samantha Taylor said, “He was really thinking about his future and we are all absolutely devastated.”

“He was deeply caring and family-oriented and a very intelligent boy.

“He would light up any room he walked into. He truly cared about others and his life.”

His grandmother Mary Townsend said: “The pain is real.

“Parents and families need to keep a good eye on their sons and their company.

“Don’t think that this won’t happen to your sons, grandchildren or family members.

“Something needs to change now. There will be no more murders of children or anyone affected by this knife crime. Enough is enough.”

Thomas’s aunt Tanya Taylor said: “Thomas was a very handsome, funny and down-to-earth boy; he never caused any trouble; he loved his family and was a brilliant big brother.

“The world is a different and difficult place right now, but we have to be strong as a family.”

Bedfordshire Police said it has a dedicated team of officers investigating the murder and the force is continuing to appeal for information.

Det Ch Insp Katie Donias described the attack as “an absolutely shocking incident in which a teenage boy was stabbed to death in a busy town centre”.

He asked anyone with information to contact the police.

Bunches of flowers were left near Greenhill Street on Thursday evening after police confirmed Thomas’ death.

A message on one read: “You will be greatly missed! On behalf of the whole gang.”

Candles were also lit and left on the sidewalk.

Chris Deller, head teacher at Bedford Academy, previously paid tribute to Thomas, describing him as “a popular, well-liked and respected boy who completed Year 11 with strong results before studying at Sixth Form”.

Bedfordshire Police said several areas of the town center had been cordoned off.

The force said it was searching for the suspects, who were wearing black clothes.

It is believed they drove towards Hassett Street and Greyfriars car park.

Speaking on Friday, Bedford mayor-elect Tom Wootton said: “This is a truly tragic and senseless loss of a young life in the middle of our community.

“My thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s family and friends at this heartbreaking time.

“I strongly urge anyone who witnessed what happened or has information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist police efforts.”