Ava White: Boy, 14, denies murdering 12-year-old girl in Liverpool

Ava was fatally stabbed on 25 November after visiting the city centre with a group of friends to watch the Christmas lights being turned on.

Friday 18 February 2022 12:37, UK

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A teenage boy has denied murdering 12-year-old Ava White in Liverpool city centre last year.

The 14-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court and pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted a charge of possession of an offensive weapon.

Ava was fatally stabbed on 25 November after visiting the city centre with a group of friends to watch the Christmas lights being turned on.

Shortly after, she was attacked and stabbed in the neck, suffering "catastrophic injuries".

She died at Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

About a dozen members of Ava's family were in court for the hearing, which lasted about half an hour, and some were in tears as the teenager entered his pleas.

Judge Mrs Justice Yip told the defendant: "Your trial is going to take place in May, starting May 9."

The case is expected to last three weeks.

In the wake of Ava's death, hundreds attended a vigil in the city centre and the Radio City tower was lit up blue in memory of the Year 8 student at Notre Dame Catholic College.

Why can Sky News not name the defendant?

When a person under the age of 18 appears in crown court, they have no right to automatic anonymity.

However, a court can impose Section 45 of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999 which prevents the media, and everyone else, from identifying the defendant.

It is illegal to publish any information which breaches this and it can only be lifted when the case is concluded.

Usually, members of the media will request the order be lifted at the end of the case in the interests of justice.

However, only the judge can decide to grant the request.

When the boy was arrested for the murder of Ava White, Merseyside Police said it was "vitally important" no one "posts comments or names on social media which could potentially impact upon us getting justice for Ava's family".

Doing so breaches the order - and could jeopardise the trial.

"This strong-willed girl, Ava, was loved by so many people," said the Archbishop of Liverpool as he officiated her funeral.

"Heaven will be a happier place because of her exuberance. She will undoubtedly have taken it by storm."

Three other boys were also arrested following Ava's death.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said a 16-year-old boy was released on bail, a 14-year-old was released under investigation and no further action was taken against a 13-year-old.

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