Youth in dock as takeaway attack claims teenager’s life

The youth was one of four people arrested on suspicion of murder after Daniel Crowther, also 17, was assaulted in Stokesley shortly after midnight on Saturday.

Daniel, a pupil at Stokesley School, suffered severe head injuries and was airlifted to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough but died there three hours later.

His death has stunned residents of Stokesley, where Daniel was known as a quiet and popular student, and residents laid flowers near the scene of the tragedy yesterday.

A statement released by Daniel’s family through the police last night described their devastation.

“Daniel meant the world to us. He was a lovely young man who had a bright future and the rest of his life to look forward to.

“He was bright and popular with lots of friends who will be just as devastated as we are that his life has been cut so tragically short.

“The loss of Daniel has left a huge hole in our lives.”

The 17-year-old charged with manslaughter, who cannot be named for legal reasons, will appear at Harrogate Magistrates’ Court this morning. A 25-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl, both from Middlesbrough, and a 17-year-old boy, from Guisborough, have been bailed as police enquiries continue.

Officers have appealed for anyone who was in the area at the time of the assault to come forward.

A tribute site to Daniel has been set up on the social networking site Facebook, with shocked friends leaving heartfelt messages.

Nick Woolley wrote: “I know nothing I’ll say will make any difference to your family or those closest to you, but you were without doubt the nicest lad I had ever met.

“Wherever you went, you made everyone smile and laugh, regardless if they knew you personally or not.

“I just can’t believe that something like this could happen, and to such a brilliant guy, college won’t be the same without you. RIP Dan, you will be sorely missed. x”

Lauri-Beth Egerton’s message said: “I can’t believe it. You really were the loveliest, kindest boy I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing.

“I will always remember your amazing smile, and intoxicating laugh, it’s such a shame none of us will be able to hear it again.”