Bakery murder: parents' tribute
Updated on 11 May 2008
"He was the loveliest gentle giant - loved by everybody" - the parents of teenager Jimmy Mizen speak movingly about their son today.
Police describe his murder as an unprovoked attack on a decent young man of immaculate character.
Jimmy had just celebrated his 16th birthday and was on his way to buy his first lottery ticket when the attack happened in a baker's shop in south east London.
Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Chruch in Lee had been especially sombre today - with prayers of rememberance for Jimmy who'd been an altar boy there.
His large family demonstrating the strength of their faith - the day after their son and brother was killed.
Jimmy Mizen had popped into this bakery 100 metres from the church on his way to buy his first lottery ticket having turned 16 on Friday. He was with his 18-year-old brother when a youth threatened him and asked him outside for a fight.
Jimmy's brother called home and another brother sprinted the short distance to the baker.
They tried to stem the flow of blood, but Jimmy died at the scene.
His best friends say ever caring, Jimmy was true to character right to the end.
The attacker ran from the bakery and disappeared into a residential estate. Police had the drains there checked for evidence. Detectives do have a suspect in mind. They've searched three addresses and gathered eyewitnesses accounts, but they're keen to speak to another.
Jimmy Mizen is the thirteenth teenager to be killed in a violent attack this year.
