Michael Jones came to the United States to work with children, but his life came to an untimely end on Sunday.
Jones was stabbed to death in New York City by unknown assailant around 4:30 a.m, the Associated Press reports.
The 25-year-old native of Liverpool, England was seen reportedly talking with a man before the two started arguing. The killer repeatedly stabbed Jones in the chest and neck, cut off his ear and left him to die on the sidewalk. Jones was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Surveillance footage showed a man with long, dark hair walking away from the scene, and a manhunt is under way.
Jones was in his fifth season as a coach in the New York Red Bulls’ youth program.
“He was a fantastic coach who loved soccer and a terrific friend for many of us,” the Red Bulls said in a statement. “This is truly a sad day for our soccer community and we will do our utmost to help authorities in their investigation of this case. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s family at this time.”
New York television station WABC says police don’t know if Jones knew his killer. They also don’t think it was a robbery since Jones’ wallet and phone were found at the crime scene.
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