The tight-knit community of Merseyside has come together in grief and solidarity after the shocking murder of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel. The young girl was fatally shot in her own home in Dovecot, Liverpool, in an incident that has sent shockwaves across the nation.
Merseyside Police have launched a major investigation, with Chief Constable Serena Kennedy describing the crime as "absolutely appalling" and vowing to leave "no stone unturned" in the hunt for the killer. Officers have been conducting door-to-door inquiries and forensic examinations at the scene.
Community Response
Local residents have organised vigils and memorials to honour Olivia's memory, with hundreds leaving flowers, toys and heartfelt messages near the family home. Community leaders have praised the resilience of the neighbourhood while calling for anyone with information to come forward.
Political Reaction
Home Secretary Priti Patel has described the shooting as "senseless" and pledged government support for the police investigation. Local MP Paula Barker has called for urgent action to tackle gun crime in the area, stating: "No family should ever have to endure such unimaginable pain."
Ongoing Investigation
Police have appealed for witnesses and are particularly interested in sightings of a black Audi Q3 seen fleeing the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted attack that tragically caught an innocent child in the crossfire. A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.
The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of a bright young life cut short by senseless violence.
