GUILTY: Cole Jarvis convicted of the murder of Connor Lyons, 17

MURDERER: Cole Jarvis, 22

A man has been convicted of the murder of Hull teenager Connor Lyons.

Connor was just 17 when he was found dead in Thomas Clarkson Way, on the banks of the River Hull, on January 18.

He had been strangled unconscious with a blue rope and died from drowning.

Cole Jarvis, 22, from Stroud Crescent, Bransholme, denied killing him but was today convicted of murder on the unanimous verdict of a jury after a trial at Hull Crown Court.

Jarvis is due to be sentenced at the same court on November 3.

Speaking after the hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Rhodri Troake, senior investigating officer in the case, said: “Before I address today’s conviction, I would like to pay tribute to the family of Connor Lyons who have shown nothing but strength throughout what can only be described as a heart-breaking and distressing ordeal for them.

VICTIM: Connor Lyons, 17

“Connor Lyons was a valued and popular member of the community with his whole future ahead of him before he had that stripped from him.

“This has been a complex investigation and I’d like to thank my team, partner agencies and the public who have supported the investigation and worked tirelessly to seek justice for Connor’s family from the outset.

“Whilst I know this conviction will not bring back Connor’s life, I hope it brings some closure and that the sentencing will reflect the seriousness and impact of the crime that was committed.”

Speaking of their devastating loss, Connor’s family said: “This Sunday, 10th October, would have been Connor’s 18th birthday. We cannot celebrate this with Connor.

“Connor was a cheeky, happy-go-lucky, kind-hearted and sweet boy full of potential. He never got the chance to fulfil this potential as an adult.

“He will never get married and never do any of the things that we dream of doing as adults.

“All we can do is grieve and still live the nightmare of Connor’s last moments before Cole Jarvis stole his life.”