Boston: Girl, 9, dies after suspected town centre stabbing

Markers have been placed at the scene while officers gather evidence

A murder investigation is under way after a nine-year-old girl died from suspected stab wounds.

Lincolnshire Police said the incident happened on Fountain Lane in Boston, at 18:20 BST on Thursday.

A large area of the town centre has been cordoned off. No further information about the girl's death has yet been released.

Her parents have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers, the force said.

At the scene on Friday morning, police officers are working to gather evidence within the cordon, close to the town's St Botolph's Church.

Forensic teams worked until the early hours of the morning with the scene being guarded by officers.

Iga Bontoft, who helps run an advice centre in the town, said it had left the community feeling "shocked"

"This is not something we would expect to happen anywhere near us," she said

"We obviously don't know exactly what happened, but a child's death is a tragedy no matter what the circumstances."

St Botolph's Church, known locally as Boston Stump, invited people to light candles to remember the girl.

Forensic officers were at the scene overnight

Councillor Paul Skinner, leader of Boston Borough Council, said he was "devastated to learn of this very sad and tragic incident".

"We can't for one second imagine the pain the family and the young girl's friends are feeling and our heartfelt condolences go out to them," he said.

"I would encourage anyone with information to urgently contact the police to support their investigation so those responsible can be brought to justice."

The Conservative MP for Boston and Skegness, Matt Warman, said he had been in contact with the policing minister to ensure national assistance was available to the investigation.

"Profoundly shocking news in Boston this evening," he said on Twitter.

"I have spoken to senior officers locally and am hugely grateful for all the emergency services' work.

"I have also been in contact with Policing Minister Tom Pursglove to ensure that any national help that might be useful is made available as quickly as possible."

At the scene: Jessica Lane, BBC Look North

The local MP has asked people to avoid online speculation while the police investigation is ongoing

In the daytime, this is part of the busy shopping area in the centre of town. But, it was in the street here last night where the nine-year-old was found stabbed.

Blue and white police tape is cordoning off Fountain Lane - a shopping street with a car park in the town centre, overshadowed by St Botolph's Church.

Evidence markers can be seen and a part of the street is covered by a grey tarpaulin.

A few people have been walking past and many others commented on social media with their shock and sadness about the alleged murder of such a young girl in a street in the centre of town in broad daylight.