Tributes paid to 'lovely and bright' schoolboy Leo Ross, 12, murdered in Birmingham
A 14-year-old boy is being held on suspicion of murder
Last updated 22nd Jan 2025
Tributes have been paid to 'lovely and bright' schoolboy, Leo Ross, who was stabbed to death in Birmingham on his way home from school.
The 12-year-old died after being attacked near Scribers Lane in Hall Green shortly after 3pm on Tuesday.
He was taken to hospital but sadly was pronounced dead at around 7.30pm.
A 14-year-old boy was arrested from an address in Birmingham on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody.
Leo was a pupil at Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy. Executive Headteacher Diane Henson described his death as a tragedy.
She said: "Leo was a lively and happy young man. He had many very good friends who he absolutely adored, and they adored him.
"He was just a lovely and bright member of the school community.
"We’re supporting the children at school and are opening a book of condolence with the family’s permission.
"Are thoughts are with Leo’s family and all his friends today."
Chief Superintendent Richard North, Birmingham Local Policing Area commander, said: "I would ask the public and the media not to speculate on the motive of this incident, the investigation is in the early stages and we have someone in custody.
"I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who has CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage from the area at the time to get in touch with us as soon as possible to help us build as clear a picture as possible.
"This is an appalling and senseless attack. We are doing everything we can to support the loved ones of the young boy who lost his life in such an appalling way, but we know that nothing we say or do will diminish their agony.
"Parents around the country will hear this news and be unable to comprehend the pain they must be feeling.
"Our hearts go out to the young boy’s family today.
"We will be carrying out reassurance patrols locally and if any of the community have any information or concerns we would urge them to come forward.
"We continue to work day in day out, with parents, schools, carers and other partners to educate young people on knife crime and its devastating consequences.
"This work must and will continue. Today, our focus is on the family of the young boy who has lost his life in such a tragic way, and ensuring we get justice for him and his family."
The Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster has said that "Preventing and tackling violence and knife crime is a top priority for the PCC."
He added that his thoughts are with the victim and his family - saying that it's important they receive all the help and support they need at this time.