Teenagers arrested after fatal stabbing of transgender girl Brianna Ghey in Warrington park

A teenage boy and girl have been arrested over the fatal stabbing of a young transgender girl in Warrington.

Emergency services were called to Linear Park in Culcheth by members of the public at around 3.13pm on Saturday, after a body was found on a path.

Brianna Ghey, 16, was pronounced dead at the scene.

A boy and girl, both aged 15, have since been arrested following Ms Ghey’s death and are currently in custody, Cheshire police have said.

In a statement, the Ms Ghey’s family said: “Brianna was a much-loved daughter, granddaughter, and baby sister.

“She was a larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her. Brianna was beautiful, witty and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless and one of a kind.

“The loss of her young life has left a massive hole in our family, and we know that the teachers and her friends who were involved in her life will feel the same.

“We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.

“We would like to thank the police for their support, and witnesses for helping with the investigation.

“The continuation of respect for privacy is greatly appreciated.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Evans said police are pursuing several lines of inquiry, and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

He said: “A number of inquiries in relation to this incident are under way 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.”

A crime scene is in place as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.

Brianna’s relatives have been told, and a Home Office post-mortem examination is ongoing.

A fundraiser has been set up, to cover funeral costs and “relieve their [her family’s] stress and allow them to grieve their beautiful daughter” on GoFundMe.

Charity Stonewall paid tribute to Ms Ghey, writing: “Our thoughts are with Brianna Ghey, a young trans woman, and her loved ones, following her tragic murder in Cheshire.

“We urge anyone who may have information which will help the police with their enquiries to come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact police via the Cheshire Constabulary website or by calling 101, quoting IML 1476832.

Information can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.