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Justin Bieber pays tribute to friend killed in Paris attacks

Thomas Ayad is believed to have died at the Eagles of Death Metal concert at the Bataclan

Olivia Blair
Tuesday 17 November 2015 10:20 GMT
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Bieber thanked his friend for 'everything you did for me'
Bieber thanked his friend for 'everything you did for me' (VALERY HACHE/AFP/Getty Images)

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Justin Bieber has paid public tribute to a friend who was killed in the Paris terrorist attacks on Friday.

Bieber posted an emotional message on Twitter dedicated to Thomas Ayad on Monday, who he said was part of his team "for years".

In his message, the singer wished for “more time to thank him” and told his 69.8 million followers: “Make sure to appreciate people while you have them.”

The 21-year-old finished by saying: “Thanks Thomas for everything you did for me. You are appreciated and missed. Thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends.”

Mr Ayad, 34, was an International Product Manager for Mercury Records, a sub-division of Universal Music, according to Vulture magazine.

The CEO of Universal Music France, Pascal Nègre confirmed on Twitter that three employees of the music corporation had died in the attack, including Mr Ayad. He wrote that the company was “in mourning” and said his thoughts were with the family and friends of the victims.

Mr Ayad is believed to have been killed at the Bataclan venue where the group Eagles of Death Metal were performing.

The Bataclan was one of five locations hit by terror attacks that rocked the French capital when three attackers entered the concert venue and began shooting at the audience.

French police stormed the building and shot one attacker while two others are believed to have been wearing explosive vests.

Most of the 129 people who died as a result of the attacks were killed in the sold-out concert.

Tributes have also been paid by rock groups including Fall Out Boy, The Black Keys and Alice In Chains to Nick Alexander, the British merchandise manager who also lost his life at the Bataclan.

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