Family of dog walker 'attacked and killed by 3 teens' speak of their devastation

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John Hackett died on Wednesday (Image: Coventry Telegraph/BPM MEDIA)
John Hackett died on Wednesday (Image: Coventry Telegraph/BPM MEDIA)

The heartbroken family of a dog walker who was found dead after an alleged attack by three teenagers have spoke of their devastation.

John Hackett was found dead at his home after the alleged incident at the Snowhill recreation ground in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, on Tuesday evening.

The 36-year-old is claimed to have been found by his mum the following morning.

A family member simply said they were devastated, telling the Mirror: “We’ve never had anything happen like this in all our life, and we are trying to come to terms with it."

Warwickshire Police said previously that Mr Hackett died after getting into an altercation with teenagers, which the force confirmed was filmed and shared online.

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Police arrested a girl, aged 15, and two boys, also aged 15, on suspicion of murder - all three were bailed on Friday as detectives continue to investigate Mr Hackett's death.

Family of dog walker 'attacked and killed by 3 teens' speak of their devastationForensics at the scene of the attack in Nuneaton (Coventry Telegraph/BPM MEDIA)

Warwickshire Police is urging the public not the share the names of three teenagers who were arrested, with anyone under 18 given legal anonymity, as well as warning the public not to share footage allegedly shared on social media.

Detective Inspector Collette O’Keefe said: "Enquiries are ongoing and residents can expect to continue to see an increased police presence in the area.

"I would like to take this chance to reiterate that we believe this was an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider public.

"We would also like to remind residents that attempting to share the names of the youths is a criminal offence.

"We are also aware of footage of the altercation being shared on social media and we would ask people to refrain from sharing it.

"Attempting to name the youths or sharing a video can ultimately harm the investigation."

Family of dog walker 'attacked and killed by 3 teens' speak of their devastationPolice have urged people not to share video posted on social media of the attack (Coventry Telegraph/BPM MEDIA)

One neighbour told The Sun Mr Hackett had "helped care for his mum".

"She’ll be devastated without him and I don’t know how she’ll manage," the resident said.

"I want to know she’s OK but she’s not been at home and police at the cordon won’t tell me anything.

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"What’s happened is terrible and has really shaken up the community."

Speaking earlier this week, DI O'Keefe said they recognised the concern amongst people in the area.

"[We] would like to reassure the local community that a full investigation is underway," said the detective.

"Officers will remain in the area over the coming days as they carry out enquiries. If anyone has any concerns or information, please speak with them.

"Our thoughts continue to be with John’s family and friends, and we would ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man at this sad time."

Dan Warburton

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