The grieving family of the 29-year-old who was fatally stabbed in a nightclub has paid tribute to the “greatest of men” by releasing a photo of him.
Just after 5 a.m. yesterday, Akeem Francis-Kerr was fatally attacked at Walsall’s Valesha’s nightclub.
Although they arrived quickly, the 29-year-old, who is known to family and friends as Keemz, passed on en route to the hospital.
Authorities opened a murder investigation right away, but no arrests have been made as of yet.
Police have stated that they think a quarrel started before the attack.
An dispute between at least two partygoers reportedly turned violent inside the club, and mayhem ensued as guests scurried to leave.
Akeem’s family’s heartbreaking tribute was issued by the police today along with a picture of him.
The family’s tribute read: “The universe has lost one of the greatest of men and his unmatched energy, mindset and love will forever live on.”
Police are now pleading with anyone who was at the nightclub, Colliseum in the area, in the early hours of Saturday morning to come forward.
Online tributes to Akeem have been abundant in the interim.
One said: “That infectious smile gone forever, always so polite and humble and respectful towards me.”
While another said: “It’s broken me to hear what’s happened to Keemz. Rest in Paradise young king. Sending love and strength to his family & friends.
“Today is a sad day!! He’s known by many and loved by all.”
A third added: “This one here broke my heart rip Keemz, my little Wolverhampton sweetheart.
“I honestly can’t believe it I don’t understand we literally was out together a few months ago.
“May you rest in paradise hunny.”
One more added: “Rest easy Keemz can’t believe it just last week I saw you king.
“Thoughts are with your famo king.”
Witnesses have detailed Akeem’s horrifying stabbing incident.
There was a brawl or scuffle in the club, according to a man who wished to remain unnamed and spoke to Birmingham Live.
“I’ve gone out the front and the guy has got blood on his face. The guy was lying in the doorway.
“An argument started between a couple of people. The next minute there was a bit of a scuffle. The bouncers were on it. It looked like they were fighting.
“Lots of people were everywhere, near the cloakroom where the guy was lying on the floor. There was shouting, screaming, crying. I saw blood. Then the paramedics arrived.”
“We continue to urge people to come forward with information, a man has died and his family have the right to know what happened to him.”
The incident occurs barely over a month after an armed gang killed Bailey Atkinson in the heart of Walsall.
A police spokesperson said: “We understand the concerns around recent knife crime in Walsall town centre, and neighbourhood officers will be patrolling the area over the coming days to offer reassurance”.
