Family’s tributes to gang murder victim
THE family of a man killed at home in a brutal gang murder have paid tribute to their “devoted protector”.
Stephen Maguire was killed when four masked men burst into his house on Guildford Road and shot him in the leg and stomach.
The 27-year-old was rushed to hospital but died hours later from the stomach wound.
His girlfriend and sixyear-old stepdaughter were believed to be in the house when the gang stormed in late on Monday, March 16.
After the murder, Mr Maguire’s family issued a heartbreaking tribute to their son and brother.
In a statement released through Merseyside police, they said: “Stephen was adored by his family and friends. He was a loving son to his mother and father and an amazing brother to his two brothers and three sisters.
“Stephen’s unconditional love for his dogs was well known and they were never from his side.
“He would do anything to protect his family and friends, without a second thought for himself. Stephen was a selfless person who wouldn’t hesitate to offer help to anyone, whether family, friends or complete strangers.”
His partner, Megan, added: “Stephen was the most caring and loving boyfriend. Not only that, he was my best friend.
“He was a devoted stepdad to Keisha who gave the best cuddles, and will always be loved and remembered as an amazing man.”
Detectives investigating the murder have appealed for help to find the men responsible. It is believed that some of the four men involved fled the scene in dark Mercedes in the direction of New Cut Lane, with at least one leaving on a scrambler bike.
Det Supt Richie Salter said: “Stephen Maguire was a young man who has lost his life in a tragic and violent way.
“His family and friends will now have to slowly come to terms with a future without him, and our thoughts go out to them. They will receive our full support.
“This was a truly shocking incident and our investigation to establish the full circumstances and find those responsible continues.
“It is all the more shocking because a child was nearby at the time, inside the property which is at the centre of our inquiries.
“Although we do not believe they saw what happened, there is no doubt what followed must have been an extremely traumatic time for all those involved.
“This has also caused significant distress in the wider community, and we call upon that community to come forward with any information that might help us find those who carried out this brutal attack and bring them to justice.
Anyone with information is asked to contact
Merseyside police via social media desk or 101, quoting incident reference 20000166174 .
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.