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Family’s heartfelt tribute to ‘young man of justice’ who died in Lawrence Hill

By Ellie Pipe  Thursday Oct 21, 2021

The family of Dontae Davis has paid tribute to a “ray of light” who always loved to do right for others.

The 18-year-old-year from Bishopsworth who died following an assault in Lawrence Hill on Thursday, October 14 has been described as a “loving, caring, charming and thoughtful son, brother, nephew and a friend to all”.

In a heartfelt tribute, Dontae’s family said: “[Dontae] was a young man of justice who always loved to do right for others and loved football, music and online gaming with his siblings and friends.

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“Dontae was a ray of light with a distinctive cheeky smile, that would shine through any room he entered.

“He was a family oriented person who was playful and loved spending time with his younger siblings. His heart was pure and his intentions were true and never half-hearted and we as a family are deeply saddened by this tragic loss.”

A murder investigation was launched following the death of Dontae Davis in Lawrence Hill – photo Martin Booth

Kairon Sawyers, 19, of Whitchurch, has appeared in court charged with Dontae’s murder.

Paying tribute to the teenager during his annual State of the City Address, mayor Marvin Rees extended his respects to Dontae’s family and said: “I have received numerous messages from people telling me that he was, at heart, a good young person who just needed support.”

Rees added: “His tragic death should remind us that we all have different experiences of Bristol and we must respect those differences if we are to build an inclusive city.”

Main photo courtesy of Dontae’s family (provided by Avon and Somerset Police)

Read more: Three men arrested so far over Lawrence Hill murder

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