Family of murdered Ellis Cox prepare for first Christmas without him
A video report from ITV Granada Reports' journalist Jennifer Buck
The family and friends of a Merseyside teenager shot dead six months ago have joined with the local community to encourage any witnesses to come forward.
Ellis Cox, 19, was killed as he rode his bike home in Aintree on 23 June. As his family face the first Christmas without him, they want anyone with information to contact the police.
On Monday 23 December, the family walked along the loopline in Aintree, near to where Ellis was killed handing out flyers and appealing for information. They have also released a letter that they have written to Ellis. It reads:
“It’s been 184 days without your smile. 4,391 hours without your hugs 263,460 minutes not hearing your voice. Six months have passed but it feels like yesterday and we are still trying to catch our breath, but it’s so hard without you.
“Simple things are harder and we miss you so much. We miss your banter, your one liners and even you cracking your knuckles. Nothing is the same without you.
“Your mum is being so strong you would be so proud of her but her heart is broken and nothing can repair it but we are taking care of her the best we can. The pain is immeasurable.
“Your nieces are growing by the hour and your cousins too. They keep asking where you are and they don’t understand, but how can they when even we don’t and they are only babies.
“I hope you know how much we adored you and how big the hole is that you’ve left. We miss every ounce of you. Nothing will be the same again without you. Our lives are changed forever. I hope you and your nan are looking after each other. Tell her we love and miss her but know she has tight hold of you.”
Detective Chief Inspector Steve McGrath, who is the senior investigating officer in this case, said: "Our determination to find the people responsible for Ellis' murder remains as strong as ever and we want to help give his family the justice they deserve.
"There is no room for guns on the streets of Merseyside and we will do everything within our power to ensure those responsible are brought to justice. My message to those involved in gun crime and serious organised crime is clear – Merseyside Police will never rest, we are relentless in our pursuit of those involved.
“Information from the public is vital if we are to breakdown the organised crime groups who bring misery to our streets and I would appeal to anyone who has information about Ellis' murder to come forward.
“I completely understand that speaking up could be daunting, but when people are willing to support the police we will ensure every possible avenue is progressed to protect them."If you have any information about Ellis' murder, you can visit a dedicated web page to submit information or footage which can help in the investigation: Public Portal
“And if you don’t feel comfortable coming directly to the police you can call the independent, anonymous, Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111."