"Shocked and truly devastated" - School pays tribute after death of teenage girl in Warrington
Brianna Ghey was stabbed to death in broad daylight
Last updated 13th Feb 2023
The school of a 16-year-old girl who was stabbed to death in Warrington has said it is "shocked and truly devastated" to hear of her death.
Brianna Ghey's body was found on a path in Culcheth Linear Park on Saturday afternoon.
In a statement, headteacher of Birchwood Community High School, Emma Mills 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."
A 15-year-old boy and 15-year-old girl, both from the local area, are continuing to be questioned on suspicion of Brianna's murder.
Donations to a crowdfunding page set up for her family has raised tens of thousands of pounds.
Earlier, Brianna's family paid an emotional tribute describing her as a "much loved daughter, granddaughter and baby sister" and "a larger than life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her".
"The loss of her young life has left a massive black hole in our family", relatives said.
Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Evans, from Cheshire Police, said: "A number of enquiries in relation to this incident are underway and we are doing all that we can to establish the exact circumstances of what has happened.
“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the circumstances surrounding Brianna’s death are hate related.
“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.
“I would ask anyone who has any information, no matter how big or small, that they believe could help with our investigation to get in touch.
“We are also keen for people and businesses within the local community to check any CCTV or dashcam footage for anything that may aid our investigation.”