Murder arrest over 14-year-old boy's death

Christopher McBurnie died in Ramsey on Thursday afternoon

A juvenile has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 14-year-old boy died following a "serious incident" in Ramsey.

Christopher McBurnie was found collapsed in the area of Close Drean shortly after 15:30 BST on Thursday and was pronounced dead at the scene, Isle of Man Constabulary said.

Isle of Man Chief Constable Russ Foster said a murder inquiry had been launched and the victim's relatives were being supported by specialist officers.

A juvenile had been detained in custody for questioning, he added.

Police leading the murder investigation have urged people to use an online portal to submit information.

The Close Drean area is cordoned off to members of the public

The chief constable urged people not to share images on social media, which would likely "cause significant distress" and share footage with the force instead.

He said detectives continued the "quest to determine exactly what has occurred", adding that officers "did not underestimate the adverse impact that this tragedy has caused to many across the island".

Support services were being made available to those affected at drop-in sessions next week and a new "talk service" would be available for children under the age of 16 across the island from Monday, he added.

People have left flowers at the scene to pay their respects

Chief Minster Alfred Cannan has urged people "not to speculate or share any distressing material online".

Local politicians have shared their shock following Christopher's death.

Lawrie Hooper MHK said it was "awful news and devastating for our small community".

"Our close community needs time to come to terms with what has happened in our town," Alex Allinson MHK said.

Ramsey Town Commissioners released a statement asking people to "show respect by allowing the authorities to do their work and avoid speculating or spreading unconfirmed information".

"At times like these, kindness, empathy and sensitivity matter most", the board's chairman Alby Oldham said.