Family members of murdered Kyle Byfield have spoken about his "cheeky smile and honest charm".

The 23-year-old was fatally stabbed with a 12-inch kitchen knife at a flat in Jubilee Court in April.

Earlier today a jury at Oxford Crown Court found Natasha Capell, 26, guilty of his murder.

She is due to be sentenced tomorrow.

The family released statements following the hearing.

 

Alan Byfield, Kyle’s father, said: “Kyle was my only son and we had a strong father and son bond. He had a fantastic character, a cheeky smile on his face and honest charm. Kyle was a joker. He found it difficult, as anyone would, to cope with losing his 10-year-old sister Aleah, when he was 13.

“Kyle had his whole life ahead of him. He had a good job and worked hard and was looking forward to his life together with his girlfriend. It devastates me to know I won’t get a telephone call from him and won’t hear his voice again.”

Roni Byfield, Kyle’s mother, said: “Kyle called me most mornings and I affectionately called him ‘The Boy’. We would have a short chat before he went to work and he often told me he loved me. Our whole family is devastated by losing Kyle. No one should lose two children.

"Kyle was a great support when his sister Aleah died. Kyle always wanted children and he would have been a fantastic father. My life has fallen apart since I lost my son and nothing can bring him back.”

Laurie Peach, Kyle’s girlfriend, said: “Kyle and I met about two years ago. We hit it off straight away. We were in a loving relationship planning for our future and Kyle took great care of me in a way most 23-year-olds wouldn’t have done.

"Now that Kyle is no longer here I feel lost. I visit his grave every week as it is the only thing that brings me any comfort. Our future together has been taken away.”

The family have welcomed today’s conviction which brings them some comfort but can in no way compensate for the loss of their loved one, Kyle, who will be forever in their hearts.