Tributes have been paid to a 17-year-old boy who died on Tuesday (February 21) following a suspected stabbing in a North Yorkshire town last weekend. 

Seb Mitchell, 17, died in hospital after an incident on Claro Road in Harrogate, North Yorkshire on Sunday (February 19).

The teenager was a talented karate player. More than £10,000 has been raised so far in a fundraising campaign for his family.

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Paying tribute to Seb on Friday, the English Karate Federation said in a statement: “The English Karate Federation are devastated to learn that Seb Mitchell a talented young Karateka and JKS Squad member sadly lost his life at the weekend.

“Seb was a young talented athlete who had his life taken away much too young in tragic circumstances and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

“His family and friends are hoping to raise money to ensure he gets the send-off he deserves and so he will be remembered for the truly gifted young man that everyone loved.

“Our thoughts are with all his family and friends at this very sad time.”

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On Thursday Harrogate Grammar school said it was “impossible to find the right words” to pay remember “a special man”.

Earlier this week Detective Superintendent Wayne Fox, Head of North Yorkshire Police’s Major Investigation Team said: “North Yorkshire Police are, sadly, able to confirm that the 17-year-old boy who was seriously injured in an incident at Claro Road, Harrogate, in the early hours of Sunday 19 February, died in hospital on the afternoon of Tuesday 21 February 2023.

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“I can now confirm that the enquiry has been declared a murder investigation. North Yorkshire Police will not, at this stage, be taking steps to name the victim, however, our thoughts are very much with his family and friends.

“A large inquiry team has been formed to progress the investigation; this includes specialist officers who will offer support to the victim’s family.”

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder and appeared before York Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (February 21) morning.