Page last updated at 18:30 GMT, Monday, 12 January 2009

Murdered father was 'family man'

Graham McKenna
Mr McKenna died on Saturday after being stabbed in the abdomen

A father who was killed after he and his son were stabbed in Wirral, has been described as a "great family man" by his former Army commander.

Graham McKenna, 45, was stabbed to death on Upton Road in Claughton on Saturday. His 14-year-old son was left seriously injured.

Police are still hunting Gary Finlay, 46, in connection with the attack.

Mr McKenna, served as a regular solider for 20 years until he joined the Territorial Army (TA) in Birkenhead.

Major Colin Murray, Officer Commanding 107 Field Squadron, based in Birkenhead, said: "On a personal and professional basis, he was an outstanding soldier and individual.

"He was a great family man and was keen to assist younger members of the military as they embarked on their careers.

"It is often said in these circumstances, but there can be no doubt that he will be greatly missed by everyone."

Gary Finlay
Police say Gary Finlay is considered dangerous

Detectives said Mr McKenna and his son were walking towards a bus stop on Upton Road when they were attacked.

Both were found with stab wounds to the abdomen on nearby Speedwell Road.

The teenager remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital, said Merseyside Police.

Mr Finlay, from Prenton, is considered dangerous and should not be approached by the public.

The incident has been described as "domestic" and "targeted", by police.

The area had a heavy police presence on Saturday, with main roads cordoned off.

Mr Finlay is described as white, 5ft 8in tall, and stocky, with blue eyes. He is balding and was last seen wearing a black and dark grey padded jacket.



Print Sponsor


SEE ALSO
Hunt after father and son stabbed
12 Jan 09 |  Merseyside
Stabbed man, 46, dies after fight
10 Jan 09 |  Merseyside

RELATED INTERNET LINKS
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites


FEATURES, VIEWS, ANALYSIS
Fireworks blaze in Russian nightclub kills 100 people
Writer Graham Johnson on the Kercher case
Get me to the climate summit - but not by plane

Explore the BBC

This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.
Americas Africa Europe Middle East South Asia Asia Pacific