Tribute to boy killed in plunge at flats

The father of a six-year-old boy who died after plunging from the eighth floor of a tower block in Yorkshire spoke of his devastation yesterday, describing the youngster as “a lovely little boy who was always full of life”.

Martin Shackleton released a short statement through police after his son Liam fell from the window of a flat in Lindsey Mount, Lincoln Green, Leeds, on Tuesday.

He said: “Liam was a lovely little boy who was always full of life and loved being in the middle of everything.

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“Words cannot begin to describe how much he will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

“I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all the people who have left flowers, toys and messages.

“The many kind words and thoughts have meant a great deal at this very difficult time.”

Following Liam’s death, officials said a review is to be launched into the care of the boy. Social workers were not involved with the family but the city’s Safeguarding Children Board said it is planning to oversee a probe into Liam’s death.

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Emergency services were called to the scene at 5.15pm on Tuesday.

Liam was taken to Leeds General Infirmary but died a short time later.

West Yorkshire Police have released a woman, two men and a teenage girl, arrested on suspicion of neglecting the schoolboy pending further inquiries.

Officers have not revealed the identities of the people who were bailed and only confirmed they were two men aged 57 and 36, a 28-year-old woman and a 16-year-old girl.

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Neighbours said Liam moved into the flat recently along with his parents, Martin and Tanya Shackleton, and two brothers and a sister. It is understood Mr Shackleton’s father was the tenant of the property.

A makeshift memorial of teddy bears and flowers has been left by well-wishers close to the spot where Liam hit the ground.