A 17-YEAR-OLD who was stabbed to death – allegedly by an Andover teen – died of a single stab wound, police have confirmed.

James Laurie, of Montague Avenue, Southampton, was found wounded in the Thornhill area of the city following an incident during the early hours of Sunday morning.

Officers have since been continuing their investigation and have now confirmed that “a post examination has taken place” and that “James died from a single stab wound to the chest”.

A 15-year-old boy from Andover has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

He was initially arrested on suspicion of attempted murder but re-arrested after the victim died.

The victim’s family have paid tribute to their son and released an image they would like to share.

James’ parents said: "We will miss you and your cheeky smile forever.

"You were full of life. We will always think of you. Sleep tight now.

"We ask for privacy at this incredibly difficult time."

Friends of James have also paid tribute to him describing him as an “outgoing and funny” friend, who loved his music and rapping.

Kayne Law, a friend of James, said: “He was a really lovely lad, so bubbly and always making people laugh.

“He loved his rapping, we were only about 12-years-old when he got me into rapping and I’ve never stopped since then.

“We had a lot of memories when we were younger he was a proper good spirit to be around.

“It’s such a shame what’s happened, I didn’t know him the best but he was always a friend and we always stayed in touch.”

James Gunn added: "It doesn't seem real that he has gone.

"He was always making everyone happy with his good vibes and banter.

"It's mad to think we grew up together and were best mates for a few years.

"Even though we drifted apart over the years, we were still going strong.

"I will never forget him, rest in paradise."

Another friend said: “He was really funny and just nice to be around, if you went out with James you knew you would be fun.

"He was a really popular guy and everyone knew him.”

Police investigations are continuing.

Chief Inspector Phil Lamb said: “This is a tragic incident in which a young man has lost his life. We believe at this stage that this is an isolated incident, but we are still keen to hear from anyone who was in the Thornhill area on Sunday prior to us being called at 6.15am.

“In addition to the specially trained Family Liaison Officers who are supporting James’s family, a team of detectives, specialist search officers and neighbourhood officers are working on what is a broad and fast-paced investigation.

“We will be conducting extra patrols in the area over the coming days, not only to reassure the community, but also to support the investigation and the searches that we anticipate taking place.

“I understand that the community will be both saddened and concerned by James’s death, so I would again appeal for anyone who has any information to either speak to our officers, call 101 quoting Operation Tint, or leave information via our online portal mipp.police.uk/operation/44HC20W01-PO1.”