Wolverhampton murder: West Park still closed as police probe teenager's death
West Park remains closed today as police continue to search for clues into a teenage girl's murder.
Extra patrols are taking place near the Wolverhampton park, which has been closed to the public since the girl was found dead there yesterday.
A murder investigation was launched after a passer-by discovered the teenager's body shortly before 7am.
All entries to the park, near Molineux, remain sealed off with police tape while several marked cars are in and around the park as forensic investigations continue.
Local residents spoke of their shock at hearing of the 'scary' discovery.
Database consultant Nej Shemar, aged 54, of neighbouring Park Road East, said: “I’ve lived here 22 years and this is the first thing like this I’ve know to happen.
“It’s terrible. It’s concerning to think something like this has happened here.
“It’s a beautiful park and I thought it was quite safe.
“I know they had a problem with older people drinking there a while ago but that’s all cleared up now.”
Watch footage from West Park:
The teenager, who is not being named at this stage, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Supt Harvi Khatkar, of Wolverhampton Police, said: “This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family of the young girl at this terrible time.
“We fully understand that people will be really concerned about what has happened, but we have a dedicated team of detectives working on the investigation.
“Extra patrols will be taking place in the area and I’d encourage anyone with concerns to speak to their local officers.”
A post mortem is due to be carried out to establish the cause of the death.
Wolverhampton’s Conservative group leader, Wendy Thompson, said the teenager’s murder had stunned the city.
She said: “This is terrible – it is awfully tragic and a horrible incident.
“It’s horrible news for the whole city and we all have to hope the police can track down whoever has done this as soon as possible.
“Residents will need reassurance after something this awful has happened.”
Det Chf Insp Edward Foster, who is leading the investigation, called for anyone who was near the park on Wednesday night to come forward.
He said: “The investigation is at an early stage, but we’re really keen to hear from anyone who was in or around the park overnight.
“It’s vital we speak to anyone with information, no matter how small it may be.”
Mani Kaur, 45, said: “I do not feel safe at all. There have been other incidents in the park such as stabbings but never anything this extreme from what I know.
"I am shocked. It is very scary, I do not know what to expect next.”
Anyone with information should call West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
