Police have launched a murder inquiry into the death of a 24-year-old, who died 10 days after he was attacked outside a town centre nightclub.
James Etherington was found seriously injured outside Bijou nightclub in Bingley, Bradford, on Saturday, November 25.
Police were contacted by the ambulance service at 3.32am following reports of an injured man.
Mr Etherington, who is also from Bingley, was taken to hospital with head injuries, where he remained until he passed away yesterday.
His heartbroken girlfriend Imogen Wellman-Brown said he was the ‘most perfect boyfriend’.
James Etherington (pictured with his girlfriend Imogen Wellman-Brown) was found seriously injured outside Bijou nightclub in Bingley in Bradford, on Saturday, November 25
Mr Etherington’s heartbroken girlfriend Imogen Wellman-Brown (right) said he was the ‘most perfect boyfriend’
In a tribute on Facebook, the student nurse wrote: ‘Words can’t describe how much I will miss you James Etherington.
‘You made everyone smile and laugh and are loved by us all. That cheeky smile, wit, humour, beautiful blue eyes and contagious laugh could make anyone’s day amazing. You were the best and most perfect boyfriend I could have wished for.
‘The memories will last a lifetime and I was the luckiest girl to have you. I love you so much! You’ll always have my heart.’
She later wrote: ‘It’s absolutely heartbreaking that nothing will bring my amazing boyfriend James back but justice is needed for all his family! ❤️’
Mr Etherington’s brother Joe wrote a message to friends on his Facebook account to announce that James had passed away.
Dozens of tributes have since been posted online and even the local council posted a message of condolence.
One friend said: ‘Never thought this day would come, bingley is absolutely heartbroken today, James you were and friend and a brother to not only me but half of bingley aswell! I’ll never forget you mate!’
Mr Etherington’s brother Joe wrote a message to friends on his Facebook account to announce that James had passed away
While another posted: ‘A very sad day today. First thing I want to say is my thoughts and prayers are with the Etherington family always.
‘James Etherington was one of my best friend growing up. And we shared many memories together. I will never forget you mate you will always be in my heart.’
Flowers for Mr Etherington have also been placed outside the door of Bijou nightclub.
Bingley Town Council wrote on Facebook yesterday saying: ‘We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of James Etherington who sadly passed away this afternoon.
‘The Town Council meeting scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled out of respect for James’s family and in consideration of their privacy.
‘We are seeking advice from the police as to suitable future actions. Thank you for your understanding, our thoughts are with James’s family and friends.’
Flowers for Mr Etherington have also been placed outside the door of Bijou nightclub
One of the many floral tributes placed outside the Bijou nightclub, Bingley, West Yorkshire, where James Etherington died after being attacked
Four men aged 31, 30, 28 and 23 were arrested in connection with the incident.
The 31-year-old and 30-year-old were released under investigation and the 23-year-old was bailed. The 28-year-old was released without charge.
Detective Chief Inspector Ian Scott of Protective Services (Crime), said: ‘I would appeal to anyone with information about the incident and who hasn’t yet come forward to do so.
‘We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who took footage on their mobile phones to come forward.’
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting crime reference number 13170551254 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.