Family pay tribute to ‘beautiful boy’ killed in Exmouth garden

The family of Denva Lewis Smith, 24, have paid tribute to a “beautiful boy with a kind soul” following his death after an alleged assault in Exmouth on Saturday, 31 May.

In a heartfelt tribute, they said: “Son, dad, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew — you will be truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing you.

“Denva could brighten up a room instantly with his cheeky ways. He was full of energy, always up for a chat, and everyone who met him fell in love with him — a real-life Tigger character who was so full of life from day one.

“We will treasure all the memories we have forever, but it’s heartbreaking that we won’t make any more together. You had your whole life ahead of you, and it’s so hard to face the fact that you’re no longer here.

“You’ll be missed by everyone who loved you more than you ever knew. To the boy who would never grow up — you will be forever young in our hearts and souls.”

Five men have been charged with murder in connection with Mr Smith’s death and will appear at Exeter Crown Court on Friday, 18 July.

They are: Zac Davies, 23, of Hawthorn Grove, Exmouth; Dylan Chadwick, 23, of Cambourne Avenue, St Helens; Ben Mason, 23, of no fixed abode, Exmouth; Thomas Ward, 24, of Russell Walk, Exeter; and Ben Helliker, 26, of Halsdon Road, Exmouth.