Leo Ross: 14-year-old charged with eight offences including murder as family pay tribute to 'kind and loving' 12-year-old stabbed to death
A teenager has been charged with a string of offences including the murder of a 12-year-old stabbed to death in Birmingham as his family pay tribute to the "kind and loving" boy.
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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 and has now been charged with his murder, West Midlands Police confirmed on Saturday afternoon.
The boy has also been charged with six additional assaults.
His charges include:
Murder of Leo Ross on January 21
Possession of bladed article on January 21
Assault on a woman on October 22, 2024
Assault on a PC on November 26, 2024
Assault on a PC on November 26, 2024
Serious assault of a woman on January 19, 2025
Serious assault of a woman on January 20, 2025,
Assault of a woman on January 21, 2025
'Loved by everyone', says family
In a statement issued by West Midlands Police Leo’s family said: "We want everyone to know what an amazing, kind, loving boy Leo was.
"Not only has Leo’s life been taken, all of our lives have as well. Leo will be truly missed by all of us. He was loved so much by everyone.
"The family want to thank the school, the police and everyone involved in the investigation and supporting us all through this horrific time."
In tribute to Leo, Diane Henson, the executive headteacher at Christ Church, Church of England Secondary Academy where he was pupil, described him 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."
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.
A vigil for Leo is due to take place in Christ Church on School Road, Yardley Wood, Birmingham at 2pm on Sunday (January 26).
West Midlands Police said the investigation into Leo’s death continues and it is still appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
People who can help should contact the force via Live Chat on its website, by calling 101, or by sending information to police directly at mipp.police.uk/operation/20HQ24A94-PO1