Brianna Ghey: Boy and girl arrested over Warrington park killing

Brianna Ghey was found injured in Linear Park in Culcheth and died at the scene

A boy and girl, both aged 15, have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a 16-year-old girl who was stabbed to death in a village park.

Brianna Ghey was found by members of the public at Linear Park in Culcheth, Warrington, Cheshire, on Saturday.

Emergency services were called just after 15:00 GMT after she was found lying on a path with stab wounds.

Brianna was a transgender girl but detectives said there was no evidence to suggest her murder was a hate crime.

Tributes have been paid to Brianna, with one person describing her on social media as a "sweet angel" and a "beautiful girl".

Police said the arrested teenagers are from the local area and 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."

Brianna was found by members of the public lying injured on a path

Police earlier said a post-mortem examination was taking place to establish the cause of death and that officers were supporting Brianna's family, who are from the nearby town of Birchwood.

Head teacher at Birchwood Community High School, Emma Mills, where Brianna was a pupil, said: "We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of the death of Brianna.

"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." 

Police say there will be increased patrols in the area

Labour MP Jess Phillips tweeted that Brianna's death was "utterly tragic" and sent her parents "love" on their "unimaginable loss".

Officers were continuing to trace the weapon and establish a motive for the attack, police said.

Additional officers are patrolling the area, which is a well-known dog walking spot.

Anyone with information or CCTV and dashcam footage related to the incident is asked to contact police.

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to [e-mail]