Magee Jr, 22, was following in his father’s footsteps and forging his own path in the boxing world when the youngster was senselessly stabbed whilst checking on the whereabouts of a pizza. His attacker was reportedly laying in wait to strike and has since been picked up and charged by police.
Speaking to Belfast Media Group from his home, Magee Sr explained how much of an impact the events have had since they tragically took place in the early hours of Saturday morning amidst an outpouring of sympathy from those involved in the sport.
“There’s not a person in this world who can say a bad word about him,” said Magee. “If you take a look at social media, Facebook, Twitter, there are thousands upon thousands of tributes for him and there are only good words. As a father I don’t think I had to chastise him once growing up. He was following in my footsteps, he was into the boxing from when he around eight and going into the second year of his degree. It was all going on for him. He was just an innocent boy who went out to collect a pizza.”
Magee’s wife added: “He made me and all his family very proud. He was such a lovely lad. We are all just devastated.”
A 32 year-old suspect, named as Turkish national Orhan Koca, appeared in court on Tuesday after being charged with Magee’s murder, although denied any involvement. Koca was remanded in custody until June 29 as police attempt to put their case against him together.
Meanwhile, the family are planning to hold a vigil in Summerhill Park where the shocking incident took place on Tuesday night.
