Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-old boy in a woodland area in Guildford, Surrey. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, prompting a major police investigation and an outpouring of tributes.
Police Respond to Tragic Discovery
Surrey Police were called to Lido Road in Guildford at 6.10pm on Monday evening, where they discovered the victim. Despite emergency efforts, the 15-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene. While authorities have not publicly identified him, his family has been informed of the tragic loss.
Arrests Made in Fast-Moving Investigation
A 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy have been arrested in connection with the murder and remain in police custody as inquiries continue. Detectives are treating this as a fast-moving investigation, pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish the circumstances surrounding the boy's death.
Detective Chief Superintendent Debbie White addressed the community, stating, 'We appreciate that this incident will have caused shock and concern amongst our local communities, and we want to reassure you that we are working at pace to establish the circumstances of the boy's death, gather as much evidence as possible and identify those responsible.'
Appeal for Witnesses and Public Cooperation
Police are urgently appealing for witnesses to come forward following the incident near Stoke Park. A police cordon remains in place at the scene, and the public has been asked to stay away from the area to allow investigations to proceed unhindered. Authorities have emphasised that a significant police presence will remain in the vicinity for some time.
DCS White added, 'Although the circumstances of the boy's death are not clear at this time, this is a fast-moving investigation, and we are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry. We would ask that people don't speculate about what might have happened while we work through these inquiries.'
Community Reacts with Grief and Support
Tributes have poured in from across Guildford, reflecting the profound impact of this tragedy. Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council, expressed her shock and sadness, saying, 'I am shocked and saddened at this tragic event. The loss of a young life in this way is utterly devastating. My heart goes out to their family and friends at this desperately sad time.'
Guildford City Football Club, whose home ground is near the scene, posted a statement on social media platform X, describing the club as 'devastated' by the news. The statement read, 'All of our players, coaching staff, board members, and volunteers send our thoughts and prayers to his family.'
Guildford MP Zöe Franklin also shared her condolences on Facebook, writing, 'It is difficult to find words for this tragic and devastating news. My heart goes out to the family of this young man.'
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact Surrey Police by calling 101 and quoting reference PR/45260006995. Alternatively, information can be submitted online through the police website. For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111 or via their online portal.
