THE family of a teenager who was stabbed to death have described him as a loving son.

Ollie Wells, 18, was discovered in Newhaven in the early hours.

His heartbroken family said he was a "much loved family member".

Ollie found with serious injuries in Ship Street at 11.30pm last night.

He died at the scene.

>> SEE THE LATEST MURDER UPDATE HERE

A family tribute released by police said: "Ollie was a much loved member of our family.

"He had had autism and faced many challenges which left him vulnerable and he was often misunderstood by others.

"Due to his autism, Ollie had substantial needs which meant that over the last couple of years we were not able to care for him within the family home, however he was loved dearly and will be greatly missed by us all.

The Argus:

"We, the family, request that we be left alone to allow us time to process this devastating news.”

A 16-year-old boy was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and is currently in custody for interview and further enquiries.

A knife was recovered at the scene.

Nobody else was injured.

Detective Inspector Simon Dunn of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team said; "This is a tragic incident and we are working to establish the full circumstances.

"It is already clear that the victim and his alleged assailant are known to each other and we are not currently looking for anyone else suspected of having been involved in the attack itself.

"We are keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Ship Street and Elphick Road in the late evening and who may have witnessed an altercation between two individuals.

The Argus:

"Anyone who saw what happened, or who has any other information that they feel would help our enquiries is asked to contact us online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Tamworth."

"Ollie's family are being supported by our specially trained officers and have asked to be left to grieve privately."

Lewes District Inspector Ed Ripley said; "We are reassuring local residents that the investigation is contained to the location involved and that there is no danger to the wider community.

"Our officers are in the area to advise and assist anyone who has particular concerns on learning of this matter, or who has any information they want to pass on."