Warnham murder: Teen pleads guilty to stabbing and killing 17-year-old

Charlie Cosser, also known as “Cheeks”, died in hospital days after being stabbed at the event in Marches Lane in Warnham on Sunday, July 23.

His killer, from Chessington, who cannot be named for legal reasons, admitted killing Charlie. His family say they have been left “destroyed” by the loss.

At a hearing at Lewes Crown Court, the boy pleaded guilty to murder and possession of a bladed article.

Defending, Kevin Light told the court the teenager was of previous good character and had “drunk a considerable amount” and could not remember certain events of the evening such as how he came about the knife.

Charlie Cosser (Image: Family Handout)

In a family tribute, mum Tara, dad Martin and siblings Adam and Eloise said: “Our lives have been destroyed by the tragic and unnecessary loss of our son.

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“Despite courageously battling right till the very end of his young and innocent life, his injuries were too severe and he tragically passed away on the evening of Tuesday 25 July.

“He was the most caring, cheeky, loving son and brother we could have ever wished for, and we cannot imagine a life without him.

“Charlie’s wider family are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden loss. His grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins are struggling to come to terms with this tragic event.

“Tributes have been pouring in from Charlie’s wide circle of friends which we would like to acknowledge have brought us huge comfort in our darkest hours.

“His ridiculously silly sense of humour will be deeply missed by everyone that knew and loved him.”

The family also thanked emergency services and staff at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton for their care towards Charlie, from Surrey.

Addressing the defendant, Judge Christine Laing KC said: “There is only one sentence which is life imprisonment but I have to determine what the appropriate minimum term you must serve before you are considered eligible for parole and to be released."

The boy has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced on September 11.