First picture emerges of promising footballer Luis Guembes, 15, stabbed to death in Guildford park
The first photograph has been released of a promising schoolboy footballer who was tragically stabbed to death in a country park in Guildford earlier this week. Luis Guembes, aged just 15, is seen smiling warmly and embracing his father during a recent family holiday in the poignant image.
Discovery in Peacock Wood
The teenager, who was originally from Peru and also used the name Gabriel, was discovered with fatal knife wounds after being attacked on Monday evening. The incident occurred at Peacock Wood within Stoke Park on the outskirts of the Surrey town. Despite the immediate efforts of police officers, paramedics, and members of the public who rushed to the scene, the boy was pronounced dead at the location.
A life full of promise and passion
Luis attended All Hallows Catholic School in Farnham and had demonstrated considerable talent as a youth footballer, winning trophies while playing for a string of local teams. Family friend Michelle Alayon shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, describing Gabriel as an "amazing son and an incredible young soul."
"He was kind, bright, driven, and full of promise," she wrote. "A devoted student, a passionate soccer player, and a loving son, Gabriel had a smile that could light up a room and a heart that touched everyone he met. He was deeply loved and will be forever missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him."
Family background and community support
Ms Alayon, who has established a GoFundMe page to support Luis's grieving family, explained that the youngster moved to the United Kingdom from his native Lima, Peru, as a young child with his mother. They came "in search of hope, opportunity, and a better future." Luis had maintained regular contact with his father, Luis Sr, who now resides in Miami, Florida.
The fundraising appeal humbly asks for community support to help cover funeral expenses and alleviate the overwhelming financial burden facing the family during this period of profound sorrow.
Police investigation and arrests
Surrey Police have confirmed that two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident. Officers were called to woodland off Lido Road in Stoke Park at 6.10pm on Monday, 19th January 2026, following reports of a stabbing.
A 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy remain in police custody while enquiries continue. Detective Chief Superintendent Debbie White has appealed for witnesses to come forward "as a matter of urgency."
Community shock and tributes
Residents of Guildford have expressed their horror at the violent killing. One local woman, who has lived in the affluent market town for approximately 25 years and regularly walks her dog in the area during evening hours, described the incident as "very alarming."
"It's absolutely terrible," she said. "I've never heard of anything like this happening in Guildford - particularly in this area. It's just awful. I walk in this park in the evening, even later than 6pm, so it's very alarming as well. It's horrible. I hope the murderer will be caught."
Heartfelt tributes have also flooded social media from Luis's friends and well-wishers. One message read: "Long live Luis Guembes #forever 15 #stop knife crime," while another stated: "R.I.P my brother will always remember you." A further tribute added: "My thoughts go out to the parents, family and friends of Luis. What a b*****y waste of a life."
The tragic loss of this promising young footballer has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond, highlighting the devastating impact of knife crime on young lives.
