Family of stabbed Swindon teen visit monument highlighting knife crime

The 18-year-old was on his way to visit his girlfriend in Mazurek Way, Haydon End, on December 4, when he was stabbed to death. 

Since then, his family has had to contend with the pain and grief caused by his unexpected loss, but despite this, they have also resolved to do something about the problem. 

His aunt, Lauren Page, and family friend Joanne Gonzalez, are among a group of people that have helped to launch the Owen's World Community Interest Company (CIC) to do something about what they perceive to be a growing problem with knives. 

The pair were joined by Owen's nan Trisha Aldred and their children, who all traveled to Gloucester to see the knife angel - a 27-foot sculpture created by Alfie Bradley compiled of more than 100,000 confiscated blades that were seized by 43 police forces across the UK.

Loved ones of Owen Dunn visiting the Gloucester Knife angel as they prepare their own anti-knife campaign (Image: Joanne Gonzalez)

Lauren said: "As a family, we thought it was only right to visit the knife angel at Gloucester cathedral.

"As soon as we saw the statue we all were overcome by emotion, it was something so beautiful, but the meaning of it is the reality of today's knife crime problem."

Joanne, whose son was close friends with Owen, added that it was a surreal experience. 

"Seeing something on that scale and just imagining the pain those knives will cause families was overwhelming, even though it’s still only a small part of the issue.

"Seeing the pain on Trisha and Lauren’s faces was hard, and just proved that I need to continue to do what I’m doing. That we’re very brave."

She added: "It’s definitely made it crystal clear that what we’re doing needs to be done and has made me more determined."

Owen Dunn, 18, who was stabbed to death in Swindon in December last year (Image: Newsquest)

Owen's World is currently planning a number of events to help raise funds to contribute to the cause. 

This includes an official launch event for the CIC, which is taking place on March 17 at the Moonrakers from 7pm - 12pm and will include a buffet - tickets for this can be purchased here: Launch party. 

Then on April 2, Owen's World is hosting a Spring Fayre at the Moonrakers with stalls, a raffle, entertainment, and a tombola. 

On May 20 there will be a fun run at Sevenfields. 

Owen's World has also set up a community lottery page and there are two fundraisers for a memorial garden and Owen's uncle running the Brighton marathon.