A 15-year-old boy and girl were arrested on suspicion of murdering a 16-year-old girl who was stabbed to death in a village park.
Brianna Ghey was discovered by members of the public on Saturday at Linear Park in Culcheth, Warrington, Cheshire.
Just after 15:00 GMT, emergency services were called after she was discovered lying on a path with stab wounds.
Brianna was a transgender girl, but detectives said there was no evidence that her murder was motivated by hatred.
Brianna has received tributes, with one person describing her as a “sweet angel” and a “beautiful girl” on social media.
According to police, the arrested teenagers are from the surrounding area and are being held in custody.
Det Ch Supt Mike Evans said a number of inquiries were under way and police were trying to establish the “exact circumstances”.
“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the circumstances surrounding Brianna’s death are hate related,” he said.
“Patrols have been stepped up in the local area and officers will remain in the Culcheth area to provide reassurance and address any concerns that residents may have.”
Police previously stated that a post-mortem examination was being conducted to determine the cause of death and that officers were assisting Brianna’s family, who reside in the nearby town of Birchwood.
“We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of Brianna’s death,” said Emma Mills, head teacher at Birchwood Community High School, where Brianna was a student.
“This is understandably a very difficult and distressing time for many and we will do our utmost to support our pupils and wider school community.”
Labour MP Jess Phillips tweeted that Brianna’s death was “utterly tragic” and sent her parents “love” on their “unimaginable loss”.
Police said they were still looking for the weapon and determining the motive for the attack.
Additional officers are patrolling the area, which is popular among dog walkers.
Anyone with information about the incident, including CCTV and dashcam footage, is asked to contact police.
source:https://ghanaianexpress.com
