Billy Ripley, who has been described as a “loving, caring and kind” man, died in Hailsham town centre from his wounds last Thursday, August 29.
Police launched a murder investigation after paramedics declared him dead at the scene in the Vicarage Field shopping centre at around 6.20pm.
Officers warned people to stay away from the town centre that evening while a manhunt for a suspect was under way. The high street, churchyard and shopping centre were all sealed off to the public.
The scene in Hailsham on Thursday (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)
A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder on the same night.
A 21-year-old woman from Hailsham was arrested the following day on suspicion of assisting an offender. She has been released on conditional bail until November 30.
Yesterday, September 1, a 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. He remains in custody.
Now, a 17-year-old boy from Hellingly has been charged with murder and possession of a bladed article in public.
Detectives in Hailsham on Saturday (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)
He remains in custody and is due to appear before Brighton Magistrates’ Court today, September 2. He cannot be named for legal reasons.
Mr Ripley’s aunt, Julie Puttick, said in a statement on platform GoFundMe: “He was a family person who loved everyone, especially his daughter.
“We would like to raise this money to give him the send off and headstone he deserves, as he was a loving, caring and kind young man who will be missed by everyone and will always be with us.”
Flowers left at scene (Image: Sussex News and Pictures)
His family are being supported by specialist officers as they come to terms with the news.
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Campbell, senior investigating officer, said: “This has been a hugely distressing incident, not least for the family and friends of Billy Ripley, but also the wider community.
“I’d like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while our officers have conducted enquiries in the local area.
“Our officers will remain on patrol for reassurance, and in the meantime I would still urge anyone who can assist us in our investigation to please come forward and contact us.
“You can upload any information directly to our Major Incident Public Portal.”
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