Tributes pour in after body of boy, 17, found hanged in Danson Park, Bexleyheath

The body of a teenage boy was found hanged in a Bexleyheath park on Sunday (December 6).

Met Police officers were called after the 17-year-old's body was discovered in Danson Park at 8.15pm.

The boy, who has been named locally as keen American footballer Reece, was pronounced dead at the scene.

News Shopper has received scores tributes from Reece's friends, following his sudden death.

Good friend Olli Bellanti said, in tribute: "This is the most tragic thing.

"He was the most amazing person I ever knew, always seemed happy.

"I'm waiting to wake up its just so unbelievable and devastating.

"He was one of the funniest humans I knew and could imagine growing old with him. I just can't believe this is true."

Football team mate Alex Savine said: "Although I didn't know Reece that long, I knew him well enough to say that he was an incredible person.

"He was so full of life and always energetic. No matter what was happening he would always greet you with enthusiasm.

"I played American Football with Reece throughout this yeaxr, and it was always a pleasure to play with him.

"He was part of our family and he will be solemnly missed at the Exiles Club. We miss you Reece, may you rest in peace."

Carol Cawley added: "Reece was an incredible young man,  he was friends with our son Dom since the beginning of secondary school, so polite, always a happy face and of course his trademark hair.

"We all feel absolutely devastated and send all our love to his family. RIP gorgeous young man.  The Cawley Family." 

Close friend Mille Godwin said: "Reece was by far the kindest person I have ever known, always putting others before him.

"I am heartbroken along with all my other friends, we are in total shock and can't believe this world will no longer have such an amazing soul. May he rest in peace."

Harry Rainey wrote: "It still doesn't feel like reality, I'm still waiting to awaken from this bad dream.

"It is so sad to think that someone I have known and knocked about with since the beginning on secondary school is suddenly out of my life.

"He was the funniest and most vibrant person you would have ever met and he was always up for a good old laugh no matter the circumstance.

"Never in a million years would I have thought I would have been in the situation I found myself in today.

"My love goes out to all of his amazing family and friends.

"Love the people God gave you because one day he will want them back. Gone but never forgotten - sleep tight angel."

Tharun Thayaparan wrote: "Reece (Afro) was always friendly, bubbly and dedicated to help others when they were down.

"I will miss him so much.

"Now he is in a better place looking down at us. R.I.P my man. God be with you. You will never be forgotten."

Emily Jayne added: "He was such an amazing person, always happy and would make anyone smile. He will be missed dearly by everyone. We love you Reece."

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School peer Jonathan Wilson wrote: "I knew Reece in secondary school and he was always really funny and energetic.

"The tragic news shocked me - my prayers go to all his friends and family."

Exiles player Sam Adams added: " believe Reece is a true inspiration to the team in more ways than one.

"His energetic, optimistic attitude was one of the main reasons why I felt so comfortable and positive playing for the exiles.

"He was a talented player with an admirable sense of determination.

"I am privileged to say that he was my friend, as he represented somebody that everybody could aspire to be like. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

"My thoughts are with his family. RIP Reece."

A Met spokesman said: "At this early stage the death is believed to be non-suspicious, but is being treated as unexplained pending a post-mortem examination.

"Enquiries into the circumstances of the death are being carried out by Bexley borough officers."

If you knew Reece, and would like to leave a tribute, email josie.griffiths@london.newsquest.co.uk or ring 07584 614377.