Man in court over murder of 15-year-old Jakub Szymanski in double stabbing in Manchester

ITV Granada Reports' journalist Emma Sweeney has the latetst from Manchester Magistrates' Court.

A man has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 15-year-old boy and the attempted murder of the teenager’s mother.

Jakub Szymanski died in hospital from his injuries about an hour after emergency services were called to an house in the Miles Platting area of Manchester on Thursday, 9 June, night.

His mother, Katarzyna Bastek, 40, was also treated for serious stab wounds at the home in Bednal Avenue.

Ms Bastek is recovering in hospital, where she is said to be in a stable condition.

On Monday, Suleman Altaf, 44, of no fixed address, made a brief two-minute appearance at Manchester Magistrates’ Court.

The defendant, who is understood be the ex-partner of Ms Bastek, is accused of murder, attempted murder and possession of a knife in a public place.

Wearing a grey top and grey jogging pants, he spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.

Relatives of Jakub looked on from the public gallery as District Judge Mark Hadfield said the first two charges could only be dealt with at crown court.

Altaf was further remanded into custody and will next appear at Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday.

In a tribute issued last week, Jakub’s family said: “Jakub was lovingly known as Kuba to his family and Jakub to his friends. He was always a popular child, making friends wherever he went due to his friendly and chatty nature.

“He always spoke his mind, he was mischievous, funny and a cheeky boy. He loved his Xbox and football, supporting Manchester City.

“He was like every other teenage boy and was helpful to so many people, even those he just met. To our family, he’s our hero.”