Please, please, please, do not carry a weapon: devastated family of Boston murder victim Darren Birks make impassioned plea in emotional tribute

Darren was murdered in a brutal attack on a Boston street by Cole Newark.

The killer, who was jailed for life today after being convicted of murder earlier in the week, used a knuckle duster to inflict horrific injuries on the dad-of-two.

In a statement issued through the police, the family say: Please, please, please Do Not Carry a Weapon! If you don’t have it, then you can’t use it!”

They have also thanked the police team who investigated the case and who worked ‘tirelessly’ to gather evidence to ensure Newark’s murder conviction.

“We as a family would like to thank everyone that has been involved in bringing us justice. In particular, Keith Roberts, Karl Whiffen, Calley Murray and all their team who we know have worked tirelessly collecting the evidence needed to bring us this verdict.

“We definitely wouldn’t be where we are now without them,” the family said.

“It has been an extremely difficult struggle and a long time coming. But with the continued support of family and many friends we have held on to each other and come through this. I truly can’t stress enough how grateful we are to you all, you’ve held us up, and Darren can now rest in peace.

“The attack on Darren was particularly vicious, and no amount of years will fade that from our memories!

“Left in the aftermath of Cole Newark’s actions are myself along with Darren’s sister, brothers and many other relatives and friends. But most of all are Darren’s two beautiful young children who have lost their dad! They need to grow as children should now, without this shadow forever hanging over them!

“We’d also like everyone out there to remember that Cole Newark’s actions have affected two families and not ours alone.”