West Midlands Police 'working tirelessly' to steer youngsters away from gangs and violence
The message comes after two teenagers were convicted of killing 16-year-old Sekou Doucoure.
Police have said they will continue to work "tirelessly" to steer young people away from gang culture and violence with weapons in the West Midlands.
It comes after two teenagers were convicted for their part in the killing of 16-year-old Sekou Doucoure in Birmingham.
He was discovered seriously injured on 12 July last year on the forecourt of an Esso garage on Nursery Road, Hockley.
Despite the best efforts of police officers and paramedics, nothing could be done to save him.
The court heard how before Sekou was stabbed, he had been confronted and shot at in the street by someone affiliated with a rival gang.
Pierre Thomas, aged 18, from Birmingham, and a 16-year-old who cannot be named, were found guilty of manslaughter and possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.
They'll be sentenced at a later date.
Detective Inspector Laura Harrison said: “Sadly Sekou has become another statistic of too many young boys killed as a result of gang affiliation.
“It’s heart-breaking to see young lives to be cut short in such a brutal way.
“I cannot begin to imagine the grief his family still feel and I hope the convictions today give them some comfort."
West Midlands Police said schools, teachers, parents and carers all have a part to play in helping to stop young people getting involved in gangs and violence.
They said schools’ liaison officers and local neighbourhood officers will continue to ensure pupil welfare is maintained and any necessary support for those affected is available. This includes mentoring for youngsters, extra activities supported by officers and workshops around the consequences of knife crime.
There will also be extra reassurance patrols around schools, public open spaces and parks, the force said.