The family of a man brutally stabbed to death in a quiet Lancashire village have issued a heart-wrenching tribute to their 'loving and devoted father'. Lee Butler, 43, was found with fatal injuries on Birch Green in Skelmersdale on Tuesday evening.
In an emotional statement released through Lancashire Police, Mr Butler's devastated family described him as a man who would 'do anything for anyone' and whose death has left an irreplaceable void in their lives.
'Our world has been shattered,' the family's tribute read. 'Lee was a much-loved son, brother, dad, and uncle. He was a loving and devoted father to his two children and would do anything for anyone.'
Emergency services rushed to the scene near the local community centre following reports of a disturbance. Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Mr Butler was pronounced dead a short time later.
Teenager Held in Murder Investigation
In a shocking development to the case, a 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody for questioning. Forensic teams have been conducting extensive searches at the scene throughout Wednesday.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fallows of Lancashire Police confirmed the investigation is in its early stages, stating: 'We are in the very early stages of our investigation, but we have a team of detectives working diligently to establish the exact circumstances which have led to this man's tragic death.'
Community in Shock
The violent incident has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Skelmersdale. Local residents have expressed their horror at the tragedy occurring in their normally peaceful neighbourhood.
Police have increased their presence in the area as investigations continue, with officers conducting house-to-house enquiries and examining CCTV footage from the vicinity.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Lancashire Police immediately, quoting log 1419 of September 10.
