'We will never be truly happy again without our Stephen' FAMILY PLEA FOR HELP TO CATCH KILLER.

Byline: MICHELLE O'KEEFFE

THE grief-stricken family of murdered teen Stephen Lyne yesterday said: "We will never be truly happy again."

The popular 17-year-old was stabbed to death 200 yards from his home in Killarney, Co Kerry, in the early hours of Thursday.

His parents Denis and Lotte appealed to anyone who knows anything about the killing to contact gardai.

They said: "We are absolutely devastated...That he was taken from us in such a mindless violent manner, if possible, only adds to the agony.

"We are comforted by our family and friends as well as the many others who loved him and share our loss. He had been a great boy and was growing into a fine young man.

"Gardai have asked anyone who saw Stephen before he died to contact them."

Stephen's body was discovered on the street at 1.45am. The Killarney Community College student had been enjoying a night out with pals after finishing their Leaving Certificate.

Detectives believe Stephen, one of five children, was targeted as he walked alone to his home in Castlefalls, Ross Road, just after midnight.

They have interviewed 26 young people so far in their homes and in the Garda station in Killarney.

Gardai asked anyone who saw him between 9.30pm on Wednesday and 1.30am on Thursday to call 064 31222 or the confidential line of 1800 666111.

Stephen's funeral will be at 10.30am on Monday in St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney.

CAPTION(S):

LOVED Victim Stephen Lyne HORROR Body is removed from street