Two University of Nottingham students killed in an attack yesterday have been named.
Barnaby Webber and Grace Kumar, both 19 and keen sportspeople, were walking back to their digs in the city when they were allegedly stabbed to death.
A 31 year old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
Another man aged 55, as yet unnamed, was also stabbed to death.
His white transit van was thought to have been used to drive at pedestrians in the city. Several people were injured, one critically.
In a statement, Barnaby’s parents David and Emma Webber, and younger brother Charlie, said: “Complete devastation is not enough to describe our pain and loss at the senseless murder of our son.
“Barnaby Philip John Webber was a beautiful, brilliant, bright young man, with everything in life to look forward to.
“A talented and passionate cricketer, who was over the moon to have made selection to his university cricket team.
“At 19 he was just at the start of his journey into adulthood and was developing into a wonderful young man.”
Grace, who played for England under-18s hockey team and was a “talented” cricketer, was walking home with Barnaby when they were attacked.
Woodford Wells Cricket Club, in Essex, said she was “fiercely competitive, talented and dedicated cricketer”.
England Hockey paid tribute to Miss Kumar, saying: “We are all deeply saddened by the news of the tragic death of Grace Kumar in Nottingham on Tuesday.”
Students at the Russell Group university were left “stunned” and “deeply saddened” by the news.
A flag flew at half-mast on the Trent building while students attended a vigil. The Graduation Ball was cancelled.
One student said: “It is horrific. Heartbreaking for the family and friend.”
