Grays murder inquiry: Man denies killing Ashton Rowbotham

Ashton Rowbotham's parents said he was "loved so much" by the family

A man has denied murdering a teenager who died in what police called a disturbance.

Essex Police officers attended an address near New Road, in Grays, shortly after 03:40 GMT on 6 October 2023.

Ashton Rowbotham, 19, died at the scene as a result of the injuries he received.

Connor Knight, 21, of New Road, has pleaded not guilty to murder and will face a trial in June.

Mr Rowbotham's parents paid tribute to their son following his death.

In a statement, they said: "Our heart is breaking. You are loved so much. You will always be with us."

Mr Knight entered his plea at Basildon Crown Court on 13 February and his trial was placed in a warned list for the week commencing 3 June.