‘He will be sorely missed’: Heartbroken family of teenager fatally shot in Wolverhampton, weeks after turning 17, pay tribute to two teenagers convicted

These are the heartbreaking words of the family of Harley Hepworth, who was fatally stabbed in Wolverhampton Park earlier this year.

Together with his friend, 17-year-old Harley drove into the city from his home in Ruggles on the afternoon of March 7.

The pair went to West Park to meet 18-year-old Jovarn Esterin and a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, who will be responsible for his death.

A 17-year-old boy fatally stabbed Harley in the chest and fled the scene. He was found in the park covered in blood and died from his injuries.

Harley Hepworth, who died tragically. Photo: West Midlands Police

Esterin, who was 17 at the time, stopped a friend of Harley’s from intervening when he was stabbed and then held a knife to his chest, threatening to kill him unless he handed over the passcode to his phone, which was then stolen.

The pair denied murder, but on Monday (November 18), after a six-week trial at Wolverhampton The Crown Court found a 17-year-old boy guilty of murder and robbery.

Esther was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter and robbery. They will be sentenced later.

Jovarn Esterin was convicted of manslaughter and robbery. Photo: West Midlands Police

Now Harley’s family have paid tribute to the teenager who will be “deeply missed”.

A poignant statement from West Midlands Police said: “On March 7, two weeks after her 17th birthday, Harley’s short life was cut short in a moment of thoughtless aggression.

“Our family, his girlfriend and close friends will no longer be able to enjoy watching him grow, mature and enjoy life.

“He had positive plans for the future. Harley had a great sense of humor, he was funny and polite.

“He will be greatly missed, but we will always remember his sass, his contagious smile and the fun times we had together.

“Harley is another young life lost before they had a chance to learn what life is.”

Flowers were left in Harley's honor near West Park after his death — Flowers were left in Harley’s honor near West Park after his death

After his death, an online fundraiser was organized to fund bloodletting kits in Staffordshire, raising over £1,000.

Flowers and notes from loved ones were left as a tribute to him near West Park in the days after the fatal stabbing.

There were also calls from “Wolves” fans. to applaud at the match was held after his death in his honor.