"No words can explain how much we loved Wayne" - Tributes to Tongham stabbing victim
Last updated 4th Nov 2021
A man who died in hospital 12 days after being stabbed in Tongham has been formally identified as Wayne Smith.
The 37-year-old from Rickyard in Guildford has been described by his family as a “bubbly, boisterous man who had a radiant smile”.
He was taken to hospital with stab wounds on 15 October, but later died on 27 October.
A murder investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Family tributes in full
Wayne Smith's farther said...
“No words can explain how much we loved Wayne, how much we will miss him and how big the hole will be in our lives now he has gone. He was a fun and loving family man who was extremely close to me, his younger brother and his nephews. Although he wasn’t outwardly cuddly, he was a big softie at heart and there wasn’t a night that went by where he didn’t say to me before bed that he loved me and would see me in the morning.
“Wayne was looking forward to enjoying the rest of his life after passing the test to become a digger driver and he was planning lots of holidays with his girlfriend. He was excited for what his future had in store for him and it is just devastating that this was taken away from him.
“We have received lots of well wishes from the local community and from those who knew Wayne, and it has been very touching to see the impact he had on so many people. We will love and miss you forever Wayne. Sleep well my son.”
Wayne Smith’s mother said…
“Our beautiful boy has been taken away from us too soon. No parent should have to go through the pain, heartbreak and sorrow that we are feeling and will continue to feel forevermore.”
“Although Wayne’s life was in Surrey with his dad and brother, his visits to spend time with us and his younger brothers were special times that we will treasure forever. Wayne was the protective, big brother who they looked up to and adored.”
“Wayne was a very intelligent young man, hard-working and successful, who made us extremely proud. Wayne, we just can’t comprehend that never again will we see your handsome face and beautiful smile or hear that cheeky laugh. We will treasure the memories we have of you and hold you in our hearts forever. Rest in peace my beautiful boy.”
Ongoing investigation
A 23-year-old man, a 30-year-old man and a 16-year-old male all from Aldershot, were initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
The 16-year-old was then re-arrested on suspicion of murder following Wayne’s death
All three remain on bail pending further enquiries.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Gareth Hicks said: “Our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with Wayne’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“Our officers are doing everything possible to make sure that those responsible for Wayne’s death are brought to justice.
“We continue to encourage anyone who has any further information to contact us and we especially would like to speak to those who were in the area of The Moors, Tongham, close to the underpass of the A331, at around 9pm on Friday, 15 October. You may have seen or heard something that is crucial to our investigation, so please do get in touch.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting PR/45210109161.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111.