Stourbridge stabbing: devastated mum pays tribute to teenage son
16 year old Joseph Riches was fatally stabbed on Saturday, with four teenagers arrested on suspicion of murder
Last updated 18th Jul 2023
The “devastated” mum of a Birmingham teenager who was killed at the weekend has paid tribute to her son.
Joseph Riches, 16, was stabbed in Coventry Street, Stourbridge, on Saturday evening and was conveyed to Rowley Regis where he sadly died.
Joe's mum said he " wanted nothing more than to grow up and be a dad. He will never get the chance to do that now".
She said: “Joe loved going to the gym and was just a happy and loving son.
"I want to appeal to people to help the police to find out what happened to my son and would ask anyone that can help to come forward with information.”
Four people- two 19 year olds and two 16 year olds- are charged with murder of Joe and will appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court today.
Detective Inspector Laura Harrison, from the force’s homicide department, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Joe who are devastated by the loss of their child.
“Our investigation is still ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who can help us piece together what happened to get in touch with us.
“We’ve been exploring CCTV and making enquiries and I’d like to thank the public and local community for supporting us so far.”
West Midlands Police have said there will be increased police activity in and around Stourbridge bus station.
All cordons have now been lifted whilst police explore CCTV and conduct forensic enquiries.