Grieving Parents Continue Daily Messages to Murdered Son
The heartbroken parents of Charlie ‘Cheeks’ Cosser, a 17-year-old schoolboy murdered in July, reveal their ongoing pain and coping mechanisms.
Tragic Night in Warnham, West Sussex
On July 25, Charlie Cosser was fatally stabbed multiple times at a farmhouse party in Warnham, West Sussex. The alleged 17-year-old killer, suffering from alcohol-induced amnesia, awaits trial on May 13, 2024.
Unbearable Loss: Parents’ Daily WhatsApp Messages
Unable to bear the thought of Charlie’s name fading from their chats, Martin and Tara, Charlie’s parents, continue to send daily messages to his WhatsApp, even though they know there won’t be a response.
Keeping Memories Alive: Updates and Rituals
Tara updates Charlie on their lives, sharing news and maintaining a connection. The family also keeps up rituals like leaving the bathroom light on and the back door unlocked, reminiscent of when Charlie was alive.
Initial Disbelief and Tragic Reality
When informed of Charlie’s stabbing, his parents were in disbelief, hoping for his recovery. Tragically, Charlie succumbed to his injuries three days later, leaving his family shattered.
Charlie’s Promise: Dedicating Lives to Anti-Knife Campaign
In memory of Charlie, his parents are dedicating their lives to educating youth about knife dangers, establishing the charity “Charlie’s Promise.” They plan to discuss knife crime laws with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk.
Family’s Vow to Tackle Knife Crime
On Charlie’s deathbed, his father, Martin, promised to combat knife crime. The family, along with their other children, is determined to raise awareness and prevent such tragedies.
Outpouring of Support and Tributes
Friends and family have rallied, raising over £30,000 for Lives Not Knives, a charity combating youth violence. Tributes describe Charlie as caring, cheeky, and deeply missed, emphasizing the impact his loss has had on the wider family.
Coping Through Humor and Positivity
Despite the grief, Tara expresses an unexpected positivity, finding strength and purpose in talking to young people about knife crime. The family acknowledges the support of emergency services and the Royal Sussex County Hospital.
Legacy of a Youthful Spirit
Charlie’s sense of humor and love for football are remembered by friends, family, and the Milford Pumas football team. The tragedy has affected not only his immediate family but also his wider circle of friends and the community.
Sorrow and Distress: A Grandfather’s Grief
Charlie’s grandfather, Steve, a former Mayor of Godalming, Surrey, and Tory councillor, is too distraught to speak, highlighting the deep impact the tragedy has had on the entire family.
