University student Luke O'Connor stabbed to death in Manchester

The family of a 19-year-old student stabbed to death in Manchester have described him as a "gentle giant with big hopes and dreams".

Luke O'Connor was fatally attacked at around 2am on Wednesday on Wilmslow Road in Fallowfield.

Officers from Greater Manchester Police gave him CPR but he died later in hospital.

In a statement, his family said they were "truly devastated".

"Luke was loved by so many people, and he knew how much he was loved in return," they said.

They described the second year business management student as a "gentle giant with big hopes and dreams for the future".

"He had a profound impact on so many people throughout his life. He was truly one of a kind, whose presence would light up any room," the statement said.

"Luke's friends also adored him, as he adored them. They often called Luke a 'Legend' and 'the life and soul' of everything he did. Everyone who met him, truly loved him."

Detective Superintendent Neil Jones said officers were "working round the clock" to catch the killer.

"This was a terrible crime which has robbed a young man of his life, and my thoughts are with his family at this devastating time," he added.

"We are actively pursuing leads and will relentlessly pursue the offender to ensure they are brought to justice."

More officers have been sent to patrol student areas and provide reassurance.

Anyone with information about the attack has been asked to contact the police.