Eighteen-year-old aspiring boxer Connor Brown stabbed to death on night out in Sunderland
Two men, aged 19 and 20, arrested on suspicion of murder
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An aspiring young boxer who died after he was attacked on a night out with his friends has been named by police.
Connor Brown, 18, died after he was assaulted in Sunderland city centre in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The Sunderland AFC supporter was found injured behind The Borough pub, in Vine Place, at about 1.28am and died in hospital a short while later.
Police say his injuries were "consistent with those of a stabbing".
Two men, aged 19 and 20, have since been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Northumbria Police said it was not treating the incident as a random attack.
Tributes have poured in for the keen boxer from Farringdon, who was a member of Plains Farm Amateur Boxing Club.
Friends have described Connor, who also played for Seaburn FC, as an “amazing lad” who “wouldn’t hurt a fly”.
Former professional boxer and Olympic medallist Tony Jeffries, originally from Sunderland, paid tribute to the youngster after he was officially named on Monday.
He said: “So so sad, 18yr old Sunderland lad, Connor Brown was murdered yesterday – absolutely heart breaking.
“My thoughts are with his family right now, can’t imagine what they going through.
“I heard nothing but amazing things about this kid.”
Sunderland football fans are calling for a minute’s applause in tribute to the teenager during the 18th minute of Saturday’s home match against Plymouth Argyle.
Family, friends and colleagues have also shared tributes to the popular youngster.
A GoFundMe online fundraising page has also been set up to support Connor's family.
Detective Chief Inspector John Bent, of Northumbria Police, reassured the community that officers “would leave no stone unturned in finding out the truth behind Connor’s death”.
He said: “This was a tragic incident that resulted in the death of a young man who had his entire life ahead of him.
“We are committed to determining the circumstances behind Connor’s death and a thorough investigation is ongoing as we look to bring those responsible to justice.
“Two people have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody, and we will continue to speak to those individuals throughout the day.
“Officers will continue to be seen in the area over the coming days as they carry out inquiries.
“Anyone with any concerns is asked to speak to an officer.”
Police are still keen to hear from any witnesses to the incident, and have asked anybody who is yet to do so to get in touch.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 124 240219 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.