Family plan mosque tribute for son stabbed to death

Mohammad Afzal, known by his family as Mohammad Isa, was allegedly murdered in August

The parents of a teenager who was allegedly murdered in a stabbing have paid tribute to their "precious, beautiful son", launching a campaign to build a mosque in his name.

Mohammad Afzal, known by his family as Mohammad Isa, was stabbed to death in a car park on Market Street, Bury, on the night of 1 August.

Three men have been charged with the 19-year-old student's murder and are due to go on trial in February next year, with an inquest also opened into his death.

"Mohammed Isa has left his legacy of being a kind, likeable, respectful, and caring young man who was so loved," his family said.

"He was the heartbeat and soul of our family. He was our precious, beautiful son who had a pure heart."

The family, from Bury, said they had launched a fundraising campaign to build a mosque in Mr Afzal's name to "create a legacy that will keep helping people for generations to come".

They said the support they had received following his death had been "truly humbling".

"We thank endless stream of family, friends, local mosques and the community from the bottom of our hearts for their continuous love, prayers and support that they have given us during this extremely difficult time," they said.

"Mohammed Isa may no longer be with us but his love, his kindness, his strength and spirit will forever be with us and guide us."

Mohammed Isa had a "pure heart", his family says

Abbas Hussain, 19, of Bolton, Biryan Ak, 19, of Norman Grove, Longsight, and Mohammed Rayhan, 19, of Chauncy Road, Failsworth, have been charged with his murder.

Rochdale Coroner's Court heard Mr Afzal died from "multiple sharp force injuries".

Police coroners' officer Emma Campbell said: "Mr Afzal was involved in an altercation with some other males where it appears he has been injured while at the scene.

"He retreated to a nearby car where it was apparent he was bleeding and sought medical intervention."