The mum of a teenager found dead in the street has said her family is ‘absolutely devastated’ by his death.

The body of Zain Sailsman, 19, was found on Bullock Lane in Sutton on Wednesday.

It was initially thought Zain had been hit by a car but it was later revealed that he had died from stab wounds.

Police are looking into the possibility that Zain’s death was drug-related.

Mum Madeleine Fletcher posted on her Facebook page on Thursday morning.

She said: “The whole family are absolutely devastated so please don’t be offended if we do not get back to everyone personally.

“Heartbroken. We cannot describe how we feel at the loss of our boy.

“He wasn’t perfect but he was loved.”

Zain’s sister Yazmin Sailsman said on Facebook: “Thought I was going to wake up to a horrible dream. Can’t believe this is real.”

Zain was found  by police on 6.43pm on Wednesday.

He was taken to hospital but later died.

Zain was a former pupil at All Hallows Catholic College and Fallibroome Academy.

Fallibroome principle Peter Rubery said the school was shocked by Zain’s death.

He said: “Zain was only with us for a short time but he made many friends here. We have a strong association with his family who have our deepest sympathy at this difficult time.”

An aspiring rapper, Zain Sailsman had dreams of hitting the big time.

Macclesfield Neighbourhood Police Inspector Steve Griffiths said: “This is clearly a shocking incident for the local community.

“There has been speculation in the community that the victim may have been involved in a hit-and-run but at this stage we do not believe this to be the case.

“Detectives are following a number of lines of inquiry and at this stage do not believe this was a random attack.

“Extra patrols are in the area for people to speak to if they have any concerns or information that may assist in this investigation.”

Police have arrested three men on suspicion of murder.

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 101 quoting incident number 796 of 30 October, or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.