Family pays tribute to man murdered in Crawley
Two men are due in court charged with the murder of Harrison Tomkins who was stabbed to death at a block of flats
The family of a man who was stabbed to death in Crawley have paid tribute, calling him a ‘loving, kind, humorous and precious son and older brother’.
Harrison Tomkins, from Three Bridges, was stabbed multiple times at a block of flats in Arthur Road during the early hours of Sunday morning, August 13.
Paramedics tried to save him but the 25-year-old’s injuries were too severe.
In a tribute, his loved ones said: “Harrison was a loving, kind, humorous and precious son and older brother. He will be sorely missed by so many.
“His unwavering ability to see the good in others was key to his core values and this shone through in everything he did.
“In the short time Harrison has been with us he has made a wide-reaching positive impact – not only to his family and friends but also his work colleagues and everyone he knew.
“As a family we would like to especially thank Sussex Police and the other emergency services for acting so quickly. This swift action will hopefully bring justice for Harrison.
“We would also like to thank all our family and friends for the immense love and support we have been surrounded with at this horrendous time.”
Since Surrey and Sussex Police’s Major Crime Team launched their investigation, a 22-year-old man from London and a 23-year-old man from Crawley have been charged with murder.
It followed searches using drones and the National Police Air Service helicopter.
The pair have been remanded in custody to appear before Crawley Magistrates’ Court today, August 16.
Detective Chief Inspector Emma Vickers, from the Major Crime Team, said: “This is a truly tragic incident and our thoughts are with Harrison’s family at this difficult time.
“We would like to reassure the public that we are treating this as a targeted attack with no threat to the wider community, and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
“The public can expect to see an increased police presence in the area as we conduct our enquiries.
“Any witnesses or anyone who has information which could help us with our investigation is asked to come forward. You can report it online, or call 101, quoting Operation Churchtown.
“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.”