Tributes have been paid to a “people person” and “trusted confidant” who was stabbed to death by the troubled neighbour he had tried to help.
Jay Lupton, from Fen Street in Milton Keynes, was sentenced to a hospital order after admitting manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
The 25-year-old, who suffers from a mental disorder, stabbed his neighbour Calvin Olawale Babatunde to death at his home in January 2024.
The pair had been friends but their relationship had deteriorated over many months.
Mr Babatunde’s brother, David, said the family had been robbed of the “chance to say goodbye”.
He said: “Dear brother, we miss you immensely. Words cannot describe the void your passing has left in our lives.
“We miss your magnetic energy, all our reflective conversations, and your kindness.
“You were kind towards everyone, including the person that eventually took your life.”
Friends said that Mr Babatunde had plans to build a property in Nigeria so that “his children, nephews and nieces can discover their African heritage.”
Jason Obahiagon said: “To call him a ‘people person’ would be an understatement – he was the embodiment of warmth, charisma, and genuine care.
“His magnetic presence made him stand out in any room, and his infectious sense of humour brought joy to everyone around him.
“Calvin had an extraordinary ability to make people feel seen and valued, always going out of his way to help others with unwavering kindness.
“He was not only a great conversationalist but also intellectually curious, always eager to learn and share ideas.
“More than that, Calvin was a trusted confidant—someone who listened without judgment and proffered thoughtful guidance.
“His passing has left a huge void in my life and the lives of many others who were fortunate to know him.”
Olaolu Adewunmi described Mr Babatunde as his “closest cousin” and “best friend”.
He said: “Calvin made things better for everyone and all who knew him.
“I cannot wrap my head around the fact he is gone, that he was taken from us, and suddenly. I will miss him so very much.
“I was so touched by the number of people that signed a card outside his flat railings expressing how sad they were that Calvin was gone.
“I am told that he was loved by all that knew him, I feel that a light has gone out of mine and my family’s life.
“We never got to say goodbye.”
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