The girlfriend of tragic teenager Jordan McConomy has paid a poignant tribute to the 19-year-old as a “perfect human being.”
Leah Kelly paid her simple tribute after his death in what police have described as an “altercation” near Derry city centre.
The PSNI was last night granted a further 36 hours to question an 18-year-old man arrested on suspicion of Mr McConomy's murder.
A police spokesman said the extension was approved by the courts yesterday as inquiries continued. Mr McConomy (19) died at Altnagelvin hospital following the altercation at William Street around 2.10am on Sunday.
It also emerged yesterday that Mr McConomy’s brother, Paul had to travel home from Australia after news of the 19-year-old’s death was broken to him.
From Trim in County Meath but living in Derry, Mr McConomy’s girlfriend, Ms Kelly posted the message on her Facebook page.
She said: “The most perfect human being ever, love of my life x.”
Derry priest, Fr Michael Canny said the teenager’s family was “in bits” following the tragedy.
“A son, a brother a family member was now dead as a result of an altercation or whatever happened in William Street a few hours earlier. It’s the most dreadful news and it’s devastating news and it’s news that all parents who have children out socialising must dread,” said Fr Canny.
Fr Canny said Mr McConomy’s family described him as a typical teenager who had a passion for cars.
Mr McConomy’s death has sparked a huge outpouring of shock and grief on social media sites.
One friend posted: “You were a gentleman who brought nothing but joy to our lives” while another said “Heaven has gained a beautiful angel.”
A post mortem examination was to be carried out yesterday and Mr McConomy’s funeral is expected to take place later this week.
