Four arrested on suspicion of murder after teen is stabbed to death in Wolverhampton
Three teenage boys and a man have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 16-year-old boy was fatally stabbed in Wolverhampton.
Emergency services rushed to Mount Road, in Lanesfield, on Wednesday at around 9pm after the teenager suffered serious stab wounds.
Nothing could be done to save the youngster despite the efforts of paramedics, prompting a murder investigation.
Now the force has confirmed four males have since been arrested on suspicion of murder, with a 16-year-old and a 20-year-old remaining in police custody for questioning.
A 15-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man have been released on police bail as police investigations continue, with CCTV footage being analysed and forensic examinations being carried out.
Chief Inspector Will O’Connor, from Wolverhampton Police, said: “My thoughts remain with the family and friends of the teenager, who ask for privacy at this extremely distressing time.
"Detectives have made a number of arrests, which is a significant update in this investigation, and we hope this provides reassurance to people. A crime scene remains in place on Mount Road while we continue to conduct forensic searches, meaning there will be an increase in police over the coming days.
"Neighbourhood officers will be patrolling the area and speaking to people. Please talk to them if you have any concerns. I would also ask anyone with information, CCTV or dash cam footage to contact us. Any information could be vital at this stage.”
Meanwhile leaders in the city have vowed to further work with others and explore "further initiatives" in a bid to tackle rising crime in the city, with the latest incident coming after a 15-year-old was fatally stabbed in May.
Councillor Ian Brookfield, leader of Wolverhampton Council, said: "As a local authority we will continue to do all we can to make our streets safer and we are working to support the police in their investigation and offering our support and reassurance to the local community.
"Sadly, this tragedy comes just a month after another teenager was stabbed to death in our city and this can't be allowed to go on. As a responsible local authority, we remain committed to working with the police and other organisations to tackle the scourge of youth crime and would be open to exploring further initiatives to make our streets safer."
People can contact the force via Live Chat at west-midlands.police.uk or by calling 101. Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote reference number 3854-290622.