Walsall crash: Motorbikes recovered and 14 year old suspect released on bail

Seven year old Katniss Seleznev died in the crash on Thursday night

A cordon remains in place at the scene
Author: Jonny FreemanPublished 29th Jul 2023

Detectives have confirmed a 14-year-old boy who was arrested after a seven-year-old died in a suspected hit and run in Walsall has been released on bail.

Katniss Seleznev was killed in the crash involving a motorbike just after 7pm on Thursday.

The girl was taken to Birmingham Children's Hospital but later died.

West Midlands Police have also found two abandoned motorbikes which will now be forensically examined.

Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said:

"Our work to establish the facts around this tragic incident is continuing.

"We have recovered two motorbikes and they will now be forensically examined as part of those extensive inquiries.

"And at this awful time our thoughts remain with the family of Katniss, who are being supported and have asked to be left to grieve in private."

Mr Hughes added: "I would also like to extend my thanks to all those people who have already come to us with information, it is truly appreciated.

"We would ask again that anyone who was at the scene does still come forward, as what they know may be valuable to our ongoing investigation."

Flowers and messages have been left by members of the public

Flowers, balloons and stuffed toys were left at the scene of the crash on Friday.

Dozens of bunches of brightly-coloured bouquets paid tribute to the girl, with one reading: "I will remember your beautiful soul forever. Thinking and praying for your family."

In a Facebook post, her mother said that her "heart is bleeding", adding: "God took her away too young and fragile.

"I don't have strength and I don't want to say goodbye to you, my star.

"How to let you go, my heart is bleeding, my soul is aching."

Hear the latest news from across the UK every hour, on Jazz FM on DAB, smartspeaker, and on the Rayo app