THIS is the first picture of murder victim Jonathan Crow who was stabbed at his Birmingham home.

Mr Crow, who was named locally and said to have been 41 years old, had been a popular character in the Rubery community.

Neighbours were still coming to terms with news he had been attacked at his flat in Maple Road, on Friday.

Schoolboy Daniel Butt said Blues supporter Mr Crow had been like a “big brother” to him.

The 15-year-old, who goes to North Bromsgrove School and knew Mr Crow as Jonny, still texts him every morning.

He said: “I expect him to text me back. Your mind’s telling you he’s still there. You know he’s gone but in your heart he’s not.

“He was just a caring man, he didn’t deserve to get stabbed. He wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

Daniel has made almost 300 posters and flyers about a planned gathering to hold a minute’s silence and release balloons outside Mr Crow’s home, at 7pm on Friday.

Many more people have left floral tributes at the scene including Daniel, who wrote in his card: “I can’t stop crying knowing you’re gone, I just can’t believe it Jon.

“The one thing I wish I could do is bring you back but I can’t and that hurts. If I could go back in time mate I would make sure nothing happens to you.

“But at least you’re in a better place now where the angels will be looking after you. You will never be forgotten mate, I can promise you that.