THE family of a young father who died after being stabbed in Greenstead have described him as a "free spirit" who could “enter a room and brighten it with his smile”.
Alinjavwa Siwale was found injured in Affleck Road shortly after 12.15am on Friday 11 December.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, sadly, he died at the scene.
His family have now paid tribute to the 22-year-old, who was a father to a young son.
They said: “Our lives have been changed forever. We are heartbroken, still in shock and angry.
“Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a child.
"It is very, very painful and no mother should ever have to go through this.
“Njavwa had a big heart and made friends so easily, sometimes not in the right circles, and was true to each and every one of them.
"He supported them, guided them and made them happy.
“Njavwa loved his brothers to bits and was an amazing father to his son."
Read more:
- Colchester Affleck Road murder probe: Victim named locally as Alinjavwa Siwale
- Colchester Affleck Road murder probe: Second man in court after murder charge
- Greenstead community left reeling after second murder probe in a month
Mr Siwale was a talented rapper, going by the stage name Swizzino.
- Alinjavwa Siwale was a rapper named Swizzino. Picture: Youtube
His latest track, called Mr Essex, amassed thousands of views online, with the video being filmed at locations in Colchester.
Last year he performed a freestyle session for BL@CKBOX, a music platform which has helped launched the careers of artists such as Mercury Prize winner Dave.
His family said he had big dreams for the future and was beloved by his many friends.
- Tributes were left at the scene in Affleck Road, Colchester
They said: “He was a free spirit who lived in the present and on his terms. He had big dreams, he was a leader, he had followers.
“He had the ability to enter a room and brighten it with his smile, his attitude, his infectious laugh or just his presence.
“Njavwa loved his rap music for which he was popularly known as Swizzino.
"He also had a passion for football and had continued to play for Great Notley Football Club.
“There are no words to describe the pain we are going through as a family. It is very painful and he is irreplaceable.”
Two men have been charged with murder in connection with Alinjavwa’s death.
Sheldon McKay, 25, and Phoenix Lee, 19, both of no fixed address, are due to stand trial in August.
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