Surrey Police have initiated a murder investigation following the fatal stabbing of a teenage boy in a Guildford park. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community as authorities search for the perpetrator.
Emergency Response at Stoke Park
Officers were called to woodland near Lido Road in Stoke Park at 6.10pm on Monday, 19 January, following reports of a violent attack. Upon arrival, they discovered a teenage boy with serious injuries.
Despite the immediate efforts of emergency services and members of the public who provided first aid, the victim tragically died at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.
South East Coast Ambulance Service and Surrey Fire & Rescue Service also attended the location to assist.
Major Crime Team Leads Urgent Enquiries
The investigation is now being led by the Surrey and Sussex Police Major Crime Team. No arrests have been made at this early stage, and the suspect remains at large.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Andy Jenkins, stated: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim at this desperately sad time.”
He acknowledged the concern within the community and sought to reassure residents: “Our officers are working around the clock to establish the circumstances of this tragic incident, gather as much evidence as possible, and identify and bring those responsible to justice.”
Police Appeal for Key Witnesses
Detectives are urgently appealing for information from the public. They are particularly keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Lido Road, Parkway, and Stoke Park between 6pm and 6.20pm on Monday evening.
Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen:
- Individuals acting suspiciously in the area.
- Anyone running from the woods around that time.
- Any other activity that seemed unusual.
“Any piece of information you have, no matter how small, could be significant,” emphasised DS Jenkins.
A substantial police cordon remains in place around the wooded area, known locally as Peacock Wood and Wild Wood Adventure, and at the end of the car park on Lido Road. While access to the bowls clubs, Guilden Village student accommodation, and Stoke Park is maintained, a significant police presence will continue in the area for the foreseeable future. The A25 (Parkway) remains unaffected.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Surrey Police directly, quoting reference PR/45260006995. This can be done via the Surrey Police website or by calling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.