The grandfather of a 19-year-old cyclist who was killed when a car hit him is appealing for witnesses to come forward, to find justice for his “kind and loving” grandson.
Delaney Brown was murdered in Vincent Road, Luton on September 5, in an incident which police believe was the result of a fall-out between Delaney and a former family friend.
At a press conference at Luton Police Station yesterday, Delaney Brown senior said his grandson was part of a ‘gang’, but there is “no animosity” and as a family they have forgiven those responsible for his death.
Mr Brown said: “Delaney was loved by his family and was very special to us all. We don’t pretend he was perfect. We know that he was not. But he was a son, brother and grandson and he dearly mattered to us.”
Police have arrested three people so far; a 26-year-old who was released without charge, and an 18 year old and 16 year old who have been released on police bail pending further enquries.
DCI Steve Collin said it is not a complicated case, and can easily be concluded if witnesses come forward.
He said: “We know not everyone likes the police, so don’t do it for us, do it for Delaney’s family. If you still choose not to help, you are the ones who will have to look his family in the eye and say ‘I will not help you’.”
Delaney, also known as Delz, went to Denbigh High School and lived with his father, brothers and grandmother.
Mr Brown said: “Delaney was a talented young man who loved music and fashion and was a brilliant artist. Delaney liked to have fun, was always smiling, he liked to dance and he made people laugh. He had a lot of friends.”
DCI Collin and Mr Brown spoke of the so-called ‘postcode wars’ in Luton.
Mr Brown said: “We want to be able to stop all this postcode nonsense. We’ve already been meeting people from Marsh Farm, Lewsey Farm and surrounding areas. We need to meet as parents and say to our children, we are working together for our young people so they stop killing each other.
“We don’t want to see another young person hurt and would hate to see another family go through what we have.”
Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.