A grieving mother wept as her murdered son was remembered in a poignant ceremony at his former school. Ellis Cox was just 19 when he was shot dead two years ago today, June 23, 2024. To mark the anniversary, Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School in Aintree unveiled a permanent tribute to their former pupil in a moving service attended by Ellis's mother, Carolyn Cox, supported by friends and family.
Details of the Murder
On the night of his murder, Ellis and his friends had been out for the day and were returning home when they were approached by several people on electric bikes near Taskers on the Liver Industrial estate at around 10:50 pm. Ellis attempted to flee but was shot in the back. The shooting occurred amid a street-level drug dealing conflict between rival factions in north Liverpool. Ellis, described as innocent, had no involvement in crime, but his associates, who he had been with that night, were part of one gang targeted by another.
Ellis's family and senior detectives say the investigation has been hindered because those with key information about what happened have not come forward.
The Tribute Ceremony
For some time, Carolyn, from Walton Vale, and her sister Julie O'Toole had been in discussions with Blessed Sacrament Primary about a permanent tribute. This came to fruition today as a piece of artwork was unveiled at the school, depicting Ellis wearing a Liverpool kit and walking with his dog Lola against a bright sunny backdrop. New 'buddy benches' have also been installed beneath the artwork, along with a plaque reading: 'Ellis loved to tell stories of his adventures to all his friends here at Blessed Sacrament.'
Numerous pupils and teachers, along with Ellis's family, attended the unveiling. Carolyn and others present were brought to tears during the event.
Pupil Performances
Scarlett Walker, a year five pupil, read a poem paying tribute to Ellis, which included the lines: 'A caring heart never turned away, you have more love than words can say. From Walton Vale where you grew up proud, you made your family smile and laugh out loud. A caring heart and friendly face, the kind of lad no-one could replace. Though 19 years was all you had, you filled our lives with good times and laughs. Every time your name is said, the love you gave lives on instead.'
Fellow pupil Skyla then performed a moving version of 'I Have Nothing' by Whitney Houston, which brought many to tears. Another schoolgirl, Stephanie, read a prayer asking God to give strength to Ellis's family and friends. A schoolboy named Riley led the design of the artwork.
Family's Response
Speaking to the ECHO afterwards, Carolyn said the event brought back many memories of Ellis's time at school. She said: 'He absolutely loved the school from nursery right the way through. He was a character. He was so fun, and I can remember the stories. All his friends used to say, as soon as he came into school, he'd make everybody laugh and he always had a story to tell. For anybody who sits on the benches, friends will come over, and they can all share their stories, because Ellis loved to tell a good story.'
School's Tribute
Deputy headteacher Matt Byrne, who joined the school after Ellis's time there, said: 'I've heard loads of amazing things about his positivity, living life to the full. That's our school motto – aim high, live life to the full – and I think Ellis certainly did that. And the children thought of a phrase – ride the bright side. This meant keeping it positive, keeping it really bright and engaging. Hence why we've included a lot of colour in the artwork.'
Appeal for Justice
Carolyn reiterated her call for those with knowledge of the fatal night to come forward. She said: 'We've said millions of times, we didn't think that we'd still be here after two years. We need to get justice for Ellis. People need to talk and we will keep fighting until that time comes.'
Matt added: 'We'd just like to thank Julie and Carolyn for all the support they offer the school. Scarlett's poem was fabulous today. We were really honoured and are feeling so proud of her, she did it all by herself. Skyla is an incredible singer, which I think brought a lot of tears to the eyes of people here. It was very moving. It's just that sense of unity, that sense of community and a camaraderie between the pupils, parents, the school and the family. We're really proud of them. You know that Ellis is watching, bringing the sunshine.'
Crimestoppers has increased a reward for information to £20,000, while Ellis's family has doubled the reward for any information leading to a conviction. Anyone with information can visit a dedicated police web page or contact Crimestoppers.
