News / tribute

Family’s heartfelt tribute to ‘young man of justice’ who died in Lawrence Hill

By Ellie Pipe  Thursday Oct 21, 2021

The family of Dontae Davis has paid tribute to a “ray of light” who always loved to do right for others.

The 18-year-old-year from Bishopsworth who died following an assault in Lawrence Hill on Thursday, October 14 has been described as a “loving, caring, charming and thoughtful son, brother, nephew and a friend to all”.

In a heartfelt tribute, Dontae’s family said: “[Dontae] was a young man of justice who always loved to do right for others and loved football, music and online gaming with his siblings and friends.

EatDrink24/7 Launch Party is back on July 8 2026!
Exclusive collabs from Bristol’s favourite food vendors, available for one night only. Be first to grab your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 guide – plus every ticket comes with a free limited-edition beer can.

“Dontae was a ray of light with a distinctive cheeky smile, that would shine through any room he entered.

“He was a family oriented person who was playful and loved spending time with his younger siblings. His heart was pure and his intentions were true and never half-hearted and we as a family are deeply saddened by this tragic loss.”

A murder investigation was launched following the death of Dontae Davis in Lawrence Hill – photo Martin Booth

Kairon Sawyers, 19, of Whitchurch, has appeared in court charged with Dontae’s murder.

Paying tribute to the teenager during his annual State of the City Address, mayor Marvin Rees extended his respects to Dontae’s family and said: “I have received numerous messages from people telling me that he was, at heart, a good young person who just needed support.”

Rees added: “His tragic death should remind us that we all have different experiences of Bristol and we must respect those differences if we are to build an inclusive city.”

Main photo courtesy of Dontae’s family (provided by Avon and Somerset Police)

Read more: Three men arrested so far over Lawrence Hill murder

Listen to the latest Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:

Our newsletters emailed directly to you
I want to receive (tick as many as you want):
I'm interested in (for future reference):
Marketing and Privacy Policy

Bristol24/7 will use the information provided on this form to send you marketing from Bristol24/7 and selected advertising partners. Your data will not be passed onto third parties. By completing this form, you are consenting to our use of your data for marketing purposes via email.


We will only use your information in accordance with our privacy policy, which can be viewed here - www.bristol247.com/privacy-policy/ - you can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at [email protected]. We will treat your information with respect.


We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

EATDRINK24/7 LAUNCH PARTY
CALLING ALL FOODIES!

Bristol's only truly independent food & drink guide is back, and we're throwing a party to celebrate on July 8 2026 at Wiper and True Brewery & Taproom, Old Market.

  • Exclusive collaborations from Bristol's favourite food vendors (you can't try these special dishes anywhere else)
  • Be the first to pick up your free copy of the EatDrink24/7 Guide
  • Music + great drinks
  • Each ticket includes a beer from Wiper and True, a special limited-edition can created just for the occasion.

One night only - don't miss out

Get Your Ticket

Related articles

You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Join the Better
Business initiative
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
* prices do not include VAT
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Enjoy delicious local
exclusive deals
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Wake up to the latest
Get the breaking news, events and culture in your inbox every morning

Are you sure you want to downgrade?

You will lose some benefits you currently enjoy.
Benefits you will lose: