A man who was found with a fatal stab wound following a car crash has been described by his family as “a wonderful son, loving brother and doting uncle”.
Emergency services responded to reports of a crash on Orme Road in Newcastle-under-Lyme just after 5pm on Friday.
Members of the public tried to help him until paramedics arrived, but he died from a single stab wound after being taken to hospital.
Staffordshire Police has named the man as Jamie Evans, 20, from Stone, with his family being supported by specially-trained officers.
In a tribute, his family described him as “a wonderful son, loving brother and doting uncle whose warmth, kindness and great sense of humour bought happiness to everyone around him”.
They said: “Jamie was so passionate about cricket and fitness, enjoying every opportunity to be active, challenge himself and spend time doing the things he loved. These passions reflected his determination, energy and zest for life.
“Although his life was far too short, the love he gave, the laughter he shared and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
“He will be deeply loved, profoundly missed and never forgotten.
“We’d like to thank the members of the public who so kindly went to Jamie’s aid and tried to help him.”
Norton-in-Hales Cricket Club paid a moving tribute to their former player, recounting how he used to watch his dad play cricket and even played alongside him.
They shared: “Even at such a young age, Jamie’s talent was clear for all to see. His wicketkeeping was already amongst the best in the league, and in his first season in the 1st XI he finished 2nd in the league for dismissals by a wicketkeeper.
“His career continued to go from strength to strength, including scoring his first 1st XI century at just 16 years old.
“Jamie was an exceptionally talented cricketer, but above all, he was a lovely lad and a great friend to so many people within the club.
“To lose someone so young is incredibly difficult to comprehend, and Jamie will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him and sharing a cricket field with him.”
A force spokesperson confirmed a 20-year-old man and a 22-year-old man, from the Newcastle-under-Lyme area, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in custody and will continue to be questioned after extra time was granted.
A 19-year-old man, from the Newcastle-under-Lyme area, has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder and also remains in custody.
Staffordshire Police has created an online portal where people can leave information they may have through this link. Crimestoppers can be anonymously called on 0800 555 111.
