Boy, 16, dies in hospital after stabbing

News imageBBC Dozens of bunches of flowers placed against a set of railings on London Road in Chippenham. The flowers include tulips, roses and carnations and some have messages pinned to them. Above the bunches of flowers are three red balloons tied to the railings. BBC
Flowers, messages and balloons have been placed around London Road in Chippenham, where the teenage boy was found injured

A 16-year-old boy has died in hospital after being stabbed.

Wiltshire Police said the teenage boy, who was found injured in London Road, Chippenham, shortly before 16:00 GMT on Saturday, had died as a result of his injuries.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. He was initially held on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent on Saturday.

Senior investigating officer Det Insp Darren Ambrose has said: "This is a tragedy which has resulted in a young man losing his life."

A police spokesperson confirmed the 16-year-old boy's next of kin had been informed and were being supported.

"We understand the concern that this will have in the local community and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time," Ambrose said.

He added it was "vitally important" anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed it gets in touch with police.

News imageThree marked police cars block a residential street. There is blue and white police tape across the road. It is a grey day, and some of the terraced houses are painted bright pastel colours.
Police were called to London Road, Chippenham, on Saturday afternoon

Chippenham MP Sarah Gibson said: "This will leave a devastating impact on his family, his friends, and our whole community.

"No parent should ever have to face such unimaginable grief, and my thoughts are with everyone affected by this terrible event."

Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson described the stabbing as "truly horrendous."

"In a close-knit community like Chippenham, the effects of this will be felt across the town and I would like to reassure you that Wiltshire Police acted quickly once this tragic incident unfolded," he added.

"As a result of this, residents around this part of the town will see the mobile police station in the area and an increased police presence over the course of this week."

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