Leo Ross: Police given more time to question murder suspect after 12-year-old boy stabbed to death in Birmingham

Officers investigating the 12-year-old's death have been granted extra time to question the 14-year-old boy, who was arrested on Tuesday night.

He remains in custody while officers continue their enquiries.

Police are also investigating three assaults in the Hall Green area, one on January 19, one on January 20 and one on January 21 - shortly before Leo’s murder.

The victims of the assaults are aged in their 70s and 80s and police are appealing for any information that might help. 

The suspect was initially arrested on suspicion of the January 19 assault and while in custody was arrested on suspicion of murder and two further assaults.

Chief Superintendent Richard North 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.

"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."

Anyone who has any dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage from the days leading up to January 21 is urged to get in touch or submit it directly to the police via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP).

Report to the police via 101 or Live Chat, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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