Parents devastated by loss of ‘kind, caring’ son

In a statement issued through Warwickshire Police, the family of James Steen said the 23-year-old’s sense of humour had touched everyone he met.

Three men are currently on police bail after being arrested over the “unexplained” death of Mr Steen, a student at Newcastle University’s School of Arts and Cultures.

The undergraduate’s body was found at an address in Rugby early on Saturday, July 5.

In their statement, his parents, whose names were not provided by Warwickshire Police, said: “We have lost our darling son. Words simply can not convey the pain we are currently experiencing.

“James enriched our lives, and the lives of others, in so many ways.

“He was a kind, caring, intelligent and very talented young man, with a generous spirit.

“He touched everyone he met with his positivity and his sense of humour.

“We are devastated by James’ untimely death but we are comforted by knowing how much he was loved and admired by his family, friends and university colleagues.

“We are immensely proud of our son and all he achieved, and the significant mark he made during his brief time on this earth.

“As we come to terms with our loss, we would ask the media to respect our need for privacy at this difficult time.”

Mr Steen was found at a house on Wood Street, Rugby, at about 6am on Saturday, July 5 after the ambulance service attended the property.