Devastated family’s tribute to ‘model son’ shot dead at party
THE devastated family of a young man who was fatally shot in Moss Side have paid tribute to a ‘model son.’
Cheriff Tall, 21, was one of two victims gunned down at a party in Caythorpe Street just before 1am on Sunday.
Cheriff and community worker Abayomi Ajose, 36, both died in hospital later that morning. In a statement, Cheriff ’s family described him as a popular member of the community with a strong sense of loyalty.
They said: “Our family cannot put into words how we feel about losing Cheriff.
“The death of someone so young, and barely into adulthood is difficult to process, and knowing that he was taken from us in such a brutal way has left us devastated.
“Cheriff was loved and respected by his brothers and sisters, and he loved and respected them and to say they are broken is an understatement.
“Cheriff loved his parents dearly, he was very close to his mother and it’s impossible to say that she will ever recover from this senseless loss. He was a model son, they doted on him and they are overcome with grief.
“He had a strong sense of loyalty and would not turn his back on his family or friends and would always try to help anyone who needed it.
“Cheriff was a popular and well-liked member of the community and we as a family are grateful for the messages of condolence and support we have received.
“We have a long road ahead of us as we try to come to terms with the death of our son, and we would appreciate our privacy being respected at this time.”
Police appealed again for people to come forward with information about the shooting and killing of Cheriff and Mr Ajose at the impromptu street party.
A double murder investigation is ongoing and police made a renewed call for help from the public.
The M.E.N. understands one line of enquiry being investigated is that Mr Ajose, also known as Abi and Junior, was shot as he tried to act as a peacemaker when trouble broke out at the party. So far no arrests have been made and a senior officer said ‘we can’t solve this on our own’ as he stressed people could provide information anonymously and be protected.
Neighbourhood Inspector Simon Nasim said: “This was a horrific incident that took place where two people tragically lost their lives. The family and the community are grieving and we really need people to come forward. Officers are working tirelessly and its a very fast moving investigation.
“But we can’t solve this investigation on our own. We need the witnesses to step forward and give us that vital information.
“If anyone was there at the event, they need to come forward and tell us what they know.
“I understand people’s concerns – but the community need to be assured we can protect them, they can remain anonymous, we can put special measures in place.”
Anyone with information can call police on 0161 856 9908, quoting incident number 221 of 21/06/2020. Or reports can also be made anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Tributes left at the scene and, right, shooting victim Abayomi Ajose