Shrine grows in wake of family tragedy

Among the tributes yesterday was one written specifically for Ben, nine, who was stabbed in the chest but died of suffocation.

The card, signed by a young girl, says: “I love you boyfriend. I will never forget you ever. xxx”.

Neighbours in Sheridan Way, Pudsey, also placed flowers outside the house.

One card, signed by a family of four, read: “Why? Love from your neighbours at number 22.”

Yesterday, a schoolboy of a similar age to Ben braved the pouring rain to place a single flower at the side the house.

Leeds United football shirts and scarves are among the items left by family and friends.

One message, written on a Leeds United shirt, said: “We will never know why or understand why this tragedy has happened. What we do know is that you’re going to be missed.”

The police cordon has now been lifted, allowing the floral and other tributes to be placed directly next to the house.

Detectives are continuing to piece together what happened at the scene and to try to find out what made a seemingly happy family man turn violent.

Smith, 37, died of smoke inhalation after setting a fire in the main bedroom. His wife Clair, 36, and sons Ben, nine, and Aaron, 13 months, were stabbed. All four bodies were found on a double bed.

Police have declined to comment on reports that Mrs Smith may have confronted her husband over a relationship with another woman.

The family was last seen leaving a Christmas party at Pudsey St Lawrence cricket club at about 11pm on Friday.

Police believe the murders took place later that night or early on Saturday morning. The bodies were found Sunday evening.

Detectives are now preparing a file for an inquest.