Stab victim belonged to the ‘perfect family’

Joshua Hirst died in hospital after the incident on Hepworth Lane at around 11pm on Friday.

Flowers have since been left at the scene, while a Mirfield councillor who is a family friend described Joshua’s death as “tragic”.

Town councillor Kath Taylor said: “It’s tragic, an absolute waste of a young man’s life.

“They were such a lovely family and have lived here a long time. I’ve chatted to his mum while out walking the dog and she’s lovely.”

Ruth Mackereth, who works at Mirfield Cricket Club and also knows the family, said: “His mum used to come in the club and I would see her to speak to. Josh also had an older brother.

“One of the cricketers said that he had been with Josh on holiday to Malia, they just came back three weeks ago. It’s such a shock, they were a perfect family.”

A 20-year-old man arrested by detectives on suspicion of Joshua’s murder yesterday remains in custody for questioning, along with two other men, aged 21 and 18, who were arrested on Sunday.

A 22-year-old woman was also arrested on Sunday on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Police are appealing for information from anyone who saw suspicious activity in the Grove Street or Hepworth Lane area.

Anyone with information about Josh’s death is asked to call West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team via 101. Alternatively, to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.