Three men have been arrested following the suspected murder of a “talented” and “inspirational” non-league footballer in Milton Keynes.
Ezekiel Williams, 26, of London, died following an assault in the early hours of Sunday morning on Midsummer Boulevard.
Thames Valley Police detectives launched a murder investigation after Mr Williams succumbed to his injuries in hospital on Monday.
Two men, aged 21 and 28, from Luton, have been arrested on suspicion of his murder.
Another man, aged 30, also from Luton, has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender. All three remain in custody.
Kettering Town FC, whom Williams joined for the 24-25 season, remembered him as a “talented, kind, and a truly inspirational individual” in a tribute after his “sudden” death.
Mr Williams was described as a box-to-box midfielder, who also played for FC Romania, Northwood, and Harrow Borough.
Kettering Town FC’s tribute read: “Ezekiel showed great leadership qualities from the get-go at his time here and his humble approach made him a highly popular member of the dressing room.
“He was a talented, kind, and a truly inspirational individual who had his faith at the forefront of his heart, and this led him to be the wonderful young man that he was, someone whose warmth touched everyone lucky enough to know him, and whose example will continue to inspire us long after today.”
They added that a GoFundMe had been set up in his memory, and that he would be “sadly missed” by the footballing community.
Detective Inspector Rob Underhill, said: “Our thoughts are first and foremost with Ezekiel’s family and loved ones at this devastating time.
“Specially trained family liaison officers are supporting them as they come to terms with their devastating loss.
“We have made three arrests in connection with this investigation and do not believe that there is any wider risk to the local community.
“We are carrying out a thorough and extensive investigation to establish exactly what happened.
“We recognise this incident will cause concern within the local community. There will continue to be an increased police presence in and around The Hub and Milton Keynes city centre over the coming days, and I would encourage anybody with concerns to speak with our officers.
Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Midsummer Boulevard and The Hub between 1am and 2am on Sunday morning to come forward, along with any dash cam or CCTV footage from the area at time.
Anybody with information can contact 101 or report online quoting reference 43260570882, or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
