Tributes paid to two men who died in Halifax assault

Police were called to reports of three men being assaulted on Sunday morning

Author: Jaimielee RendallPublished 3rd Oct 2023

Tributes are being paid to two men who died after reports of an assault in Halifax over the weekend.

21-year-old Joshua Clark, and Haidar Shah, aged 19, passed away in hospital.

Police were called at 3.48am on Sunday, 1 October to Commercial Street, Halifax to reports that three men had been assaulted. All three were taken to hospital with stab wounds.

The third man received treatment for an injury which was not life-threatening.

Joshua’s family have said:

“No words can describe the devastation caused by the tragic death of our beloved Josh.

“A kind and beautiful soul who brightened the life of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

“The loss of Josh has shattered his family and friends. The hole left in our hearts will forever be with us.”

“We cannot imagine life without him, and as a family we ask for respect and privacy to allow us time to grieve.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are also with the family and friends of Haidar Shah.”

The family of Haidar Shah have also paid tribute:

“In loving memory of our beautiful loved son, brother, uncle, cousin and nephew.

“We have lost a piece of our hearts that will never be replaced.

“Haidar, you will always remain in our hearts and memories. Your niece loved and adored you and her whole life revolved around you. We will never forget you.

“Thank you to all his friends for showing us the utmost love and respect. We are so proud as a family to know Haidar had such beautiful company during the short time he had with us.

“Please respect our privacy during this difficult time and we urge for people to please refrain from posting videos on social media.

“Our love and condolences go out to the family and friends of Joshua.”

Detectives from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team (HMET) have launched a murder investigation into the deaths of Joshua and Haidar and are continuing their enquiries.

Two men arrested aged 18 years old have been released on bail pending further enquiries. A third man aged 19 years old remains in custody. An 18 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and remains in police custody at this time.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Holdsworth, said:

“Our enquiries into this very serious incident are ongoing and more information is starting to emerge about what happened.

“We are still keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, or from those with footage that will assist, as this is likely to be a key factor in the progression of this investigation.

“We continue to support the families of Joshua and Haidar at this very sad time and remain determined to get the answers that they need and the justice that they deserve.”

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