Rico Burton's mum speaks of her heartbreak as the man who murdered her 'Golden Boy' is locked up
04.08.2023 - 13:25
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
The mother of tragic Rico Burton - the cousin of world famous boxer Tyson Fury - spoke of her heartbreak as her son's murderer was jailed for life. Liam O'Pray, 22, knifed 31-year-old Mr Burton in Altrincham town centre in the early hours of August 21 last year.
On Friday (August 4), he was jailed for life with a minimum term of 28 years. Mr Burton's mother Deborah described her son as her 'Golden Boy' in a victim impact statement read in court, adding: "Throughout the whole traveller community, Rico will never be forgotten. On the day he died, a piece of me died inside. I have had my heart ripped out and cut into pieces."
"I feel that my son's life was stolen away from us. That terrible night ruined my life forever and that of my whole family. I wish it was me and not my son Rico, and I would do anything to bring him back. I keep thinking he is coming home from a night out and thinking he will come through the door.
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"At times I find myself lying under the bed crying and holding a picture of Rico. I will never forget his beautiful big smile. I still don’t know why or understand why but I pray this doesn’t happen to any other mother and child.
"I forced myself to come to court everyday. I was very close to Rico and described him as a mam’s boy. I miss him so much. No mother should have to bury their child."
Chloe Murry, a close family friend, wrote a statement on behalf of the family said: "Rico Burton - a loving son, father, brother, cousin and dear friend to all - was stolen from us way too early at the young age of 31 by the hands of another human in a senseless act. This has hurt us all tremendously.
"He was a kind soul with the humour of a