Police name Reading stab victim
13-year-old boy was local and known as 'Olly'
Last updated 4th Jan 2021
Thames Valley Police have confirmed the identity of the 13-year-old boy who was murdered in Reading.
Officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Bugs Bottom fields, near to St Barnabus Road, Gravel Hill, Emmer Green at around 3.50pm yesterday (3/1).
Sadly, a 13-year-old boy died of his injuries.
He has now been identified as Oliver Lucas Stephens, known as Olly, from Reading.
His family are being supported by specially trained officers.
Four boys and one girl, all aged between 13 and 14 and from Berkshire, who have been arrested in connection with this investigation, remain in police custody.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown, head of Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit, said:
“Our thoughts remain with Olly’s family at this incredibly difficult time. I would urge anyone who has any information that they believe is relevant to this investigation, no matter how small you think it is, to please get in touch.
“If you do have any images or footage I would ask that you please do not share it on social media, but instead report it to us.
“You can make a report by calling 101 or online, quoting reference 43210002635.
“If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.”
Local policing area commander for Reading, Superintendent Nick John, said:
“This is a fast paced investigation and I understand the concerns that this will have caused in the local community.
“I would like to reassure residents that officers are carrying out a thorough investigation into this incident and there will continue to be an increased police presence in the local area through the following days.
At the scene today which is near one of the many entrances to Bugs Bottom a Thames Valley Police forensics team arrived under grey skies to begin their work.
The victim's former school Highdown also issued a statement saying that many of their staff and students knew Olly well and were "deeply affected by the tragedy".
The school is arranging for counselling and is setting up an electronic condolence book.
You can read the full statement below: