Pictured: Charlie 'Cheeks' Cosser, 17, stabbed to death at end-of-term marquee party at Sussex farmhouse
27 July 2023, 12:52 | Updated: 27 July 2023, 13:27
A teenager who was fatally stabbed in a Sussex village has been named as Charlie Cosser.
The 17-year-old was left fighting for his life in hospital after being seriously assaulted at an end-of-term marquee party in Warnham, West Sussex, in the early hours of Sunday July 23.
He died on Tuesday July 25.
A 16-year-old boy from Chessington has been charged with murder - while a girl of the same age, from Horsham, is charged with perverting the course of justice and assisting an offender.
They will both appear at Crawley Magistrates' Court on Thursday, July 27.
Charlie, also known as 'Cheeks', was stabbed multiple times during the attack in Marches Road.
His family have paid tribute to their "cheeky" and "loving" son and brother, from Milford in Surrey, adding their lives have been destroyed after the "tragic and unnecessary" loss.
A family statement read: "Despite courageously battling right 'til the very end of his young and innocent life, his injuries were too severe and he tragically passed away on the evening of Tuesday 25 July.
"He was the most caring, cheeky, loving son and brother we could have ever wished for, and we cannot imagine a life without him."
They added: "His ridiculously silly sense of humour will be deeply missed by everyone that knew and loved him."
A 52-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed as the investigation continues.
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey, who is leading the investigation from the Surrey and Sussex major crime team described the case as a "complex and fast-moving investigation" as he appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
"We know there were a number of young people in attendance at an event, and we are keen to speak to them," the detective said.
"In the meantime, we urge the public not to speculate about the incident on social media as it may jeopardise the ongoing investigation."
Anyone with information can report it by calling 01273 470101, quoting Operation Ketley, or by reporting online via the Major Incident Public Portal
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
