Littlehampton: Second teen arrested over death of Paul Lawrence

Paul Lawrence, 51, was killed in Gladonian Road, Wick, near Littlehampton, in the early hours of January 28.

An inquest heard that Mr Lawrence, who worked as a plumber and gas engineer, had a head injury consistent with a fall.

A 16-year-old boy from Littlehampton was arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed with conditions until October 10, pending further enquiries.

A second 16-year-old boy from Littlehampton has now also been arrested on suspicion of murder and malicious communications offences. He has been bailed with conditions until October 9.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “We remain committed to seeking justice for Paul and his family, and we’re still urging anyone with any information to please come forward.

“If you know what happened on the morning Paul tragically lost his life, or if you have any information that can assist in our investigation, you can report it online or call 101, quoting Operation Sett.

“You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or report it online.

“In the meantime, I’d like to remind the public that this is an active investigation, and advise them to refrain from speculating or posting anything on social media that could prejudice the right to a fair trial.”

Paul’s family paid tribute to the “kind” and “gentle” grandfather earlier this year.

Paul Lawrence was a much loved grandfather (Image: Sussex Police)

His daughters Louise and Josephine said: “Paul was a true representation of what every man should be or should aspire to be. Kind, generous, and always laughing or smiling with the most reassuring smiley eyes.

“Our dad was our hero, our strength, our everything.

“He was a family man who devoted his life to his children and grandchildren, and he was immensely proud of everything they achieved.

“He was a gentle soul, full of happiness, and loved by all who knew him.

Police in Gladonian Road, Wick (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)

“Not only has he lost out on special memories watching his grandchildren grow up; they have also had the best grandad in the world taken from them.

“We could go on forever listing all the great things about him, but ultimately, no words will ever be enough to describe the impact of our loss.

“Every second spent with you and every memory we hold will be forever cherished. Words cannot describe how much we love you Dad. All we can hope for is justice.”

Paul’s siblings, John and Shelley, said: “Paul was the kindest man that would help anyone. He would light up the darkest of rooms with his smile and cheeky laugh. We are honoured to say that Paul Lawrence was our brother. Our hearts are not only broken but they’re totally ripped apart.”

His mum, Marie, added: “My lovely son Paul, I’m really broken. I loved him so much, I can’t visualise this world without him.”

Paul’s stepdaughter Chloe said: “I could go on for days about why Paul was such a special and endearing person, but his number one quality for me has to, and always will be, his ability to love me as his own. It takes a great man to be a dad, but it takes an even greater man to be a stepdad.”