Leo Ross: Police issue update on teen murder suspect after 12-year-old stabbed to death in Birmingham

Leo Ross was found with a stab wound to his stomach on Scribers Lane in the Hall Green area of the city on Tuesday (January 21), with paramedics called to the scene at about 3.40pm.

He was taken to hospital but was pronounced dead at around 7.30pm.

A 14-year-old boy was arrested from an address in Birmingham later that evening.

He remained in police custody on Friday morning (January 24) on suspicion of murder, as well as three assaults of women in the area which happened on Sunday and Monday.

In a statement, West Midlands Police said: "We are continuing to appeal for information from anyone who might have seen what happened, especially if you have photos, CCTV or dashcam footage from the area at around the time Leo was stabbed."

'Lovely and bright' says headteacher

In a tribute released by Diane Henson, the executive headteacher at Christ Church Church of England Secondary Academy where Leo was pupil, the boy was described as a "lively and happy young man".

She said: "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.

“Our thoughts are with Leo’s family and all his friends today."

Tributes of flowers, heartfelt messages and candles were placed at the scene of Scribers Lane, near to where the 12-year-old was found, in the days following his death.

A hand-written note attached to one tribute read: "RIP Leo Ross. We will miss you loads. Our lives won’t be the same without you.

“You will always be the kindest. Fly High Leo. You never deserved this ever.

Another read: "Fly high Leo. You will be deeply missed. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers."

A vigil for Leo is due to take place in Christ Church on School Road, Yardley Wood, Birmingham at 2pm on Sunday (January 26).

Anyone with information about the incident or those with photos and videos can send them to police directly by visiting mipp.police.uk/operation/20HQ24A94-PO1

Alternatively, people can contact West Midlands Police via Live Chat on its website or by calling 101. Information can be shared to Crimestoppers anonymously by phoning 0800 555 111.

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