Teenage victim of fatal stabbing in Bristol named by police

Darrian Williams' family are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers

The teenage victim of a fatal stabbing in Bristol has been named by police.

Darrian Williams,16, was attacked at about 18:00 GMT in Rawnsley Park in Easton, on Wednesday.

Two boys, both aged 15, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in police custody.

Senior Investigating Officer Det Insp Neil Meade, from Avon and Somerset Police, said: "The loss of another young life is devastating and my thoughts are with Darrian's family."

The attack was carried out by two people wearing masks, police said.

After being stabbed Darrian ran to Stapleton Road, where a motorist assisted him. He then collapsed in West Street, Old Market, and died at the scene.

The 16-year-old boy was stabbed to death on Wednesday

In response to the incident - and other similar events in recent weeks - police officers have extended their enhanced stop and search powers for a further 24 hours, until 17:00 GMT on Saturday.

This allows them to search people for weapons without needing reasonable suspicion, and ask them to remove any face coverings.

The powers, which can be used by officers in uniform in Bristol's city centre, as well as the St Pauls, Easton, Eastville, Ashley Down, Temple and Fishponds areas, were first authorised at 17:00 GMT on Thursday, but have been extended by Supt Mark Runacres.

Since the initial authorisation, 19 people have been stopped and searched but no weapons were found.

'We will not rest'

A new police operation targeting youth violence has also been launched across Avon and Somerset's policing area.

Det Insp Meade said: "We are working non-stop to fully establish the circumstances around Darrian's death and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.

"I would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information so far and encourage anyone who has information but has yet to speak to us to do so as soon as possible."

Avon and Somerset Police met with headteachers on Thursday to discuss ways in which police can provide support and reassurance ahead of pupils' return from half-term.

Officers will be making extra patrols outside of schools next week, and a mobile police station will also be in the area over the coming days.

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