Police launch a murder investigation after the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old in Bristol.
Image source, Ben Birchall/PA WireA murder investigation has been launched after a 16-year-old boy was stabbed to death.
The teenager was attacked by two people wearing masks in Rawnsley Park in Bristol on Wednesday.
The victim ran to Stapleton Road, where a motorist assisted him, before he collapsed in West Street, Old Market, and died at the scene.
Police have declared a critical incident after being called to West Street at 18:00 GMT.
While formal identification of the victim has not yet taken place, Avon and Somerset Police (ASP) said his family had been informed.
‘Horrific circumstances’
In a statement, the force said the attack was a “stark reminder” of the “horrific impact” knife crime had on communities.
Supt Mark Runacres said: “Tragically, we have lost another young life from our city in utterly horrific circumstances.
“Our thoughts are with the victim’s family at what will be an unimaginably difficult time and officers will continue to support them.”
He said the force was “keeping an open mind” but there was “no clear evidence to suggest this is linked to other recent incidents in the city”.
Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees said the death was “tragic news”.
“I can’t begin to imagine what the victims’ family are experiencing, my thoughts are with them,” he wrote on social media.
“This needs to stop. We will make every effort to support the family, the police and local community at this time.”
Image source, Ben Birchall
A police cordon which was in place on West Street has been taken down. A cordon remains in Rawnsley Park.
ASP said there would be increased patrols in the area as officers made enquiries.
A post-mortem examination will take place in due course, police said.
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