A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a 17-year-old in Brighton. Emergency services were called to Queens Road, a busy city centre street, at around 5pm on Thursday after reports that a teenager had been stabbed.
The victim was rushed to hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Police have informed his next of kin and are providing support. The arrested boy remains in custody as investigations continue.
Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme of the Surrey & Sussex Major Crime Team described the incident as tragic and said the community would be shocked. He confirmed a fast-moving investigation is underway and appealed for witnesses, particularly anyone who saw a man dressed in black leaving the area.
Police have increased their presence in Brighton while they establish the circumstances of the stabbing. Forensic officers have been seen at the scene, and a blue tent has been erected for evidence gathering.
The death adds to a rising number of teenage fatalities in the UK this year, with recent stabbings in Luton and London drawing attention to knife crime. Home Secretary Suella Braverman has previously urged police to increase stop and search powers to tackle the issue.
