School pays tribute to boy, 13, stabbed to death in Reading
Five people have been arrested and police continue to appeal for witnesses after the fatal stabbing on Sunday afternoon.
Monday 4 January 2021 15:15, UK
A school headteacher has paid tribute to a 13-year-old pupil who was stabbed to death in a "total tragedy" on Sunday.
Four boys and a girl have been arrested by police investigating the fatal attack on the teenage boy.
Rachel Reeves, headteacher of Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre, where the victim attended, released a statement saying the community is "reeling" from his death.
"This student was part of our community and many students and staff knew him well. For a life to be ended at such a young age is a total tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family," she said.
"We are currently unable to do this of course but are arranging counselling support and will be establishing an electronic book of condolence. Highdown is a supportive and close-knit community, we will work together over the coming days and weeks."
Thames Valley Police said the teenagers, aged 13 and 14, are being held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder after the incident in Reading.
Officers were called just before 4pm on Sunday following reports of a stabbing in Bugs Bottom fields, Emmer Green.
The boy died at the scene and he has not yet been formally identified.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown, head of Thames Valley Police's Major Crime Unit, said: "This remains a very active investigation and a large scene-watch remains in place.
"We have arrested five young people in connection with this tragic incident, but I would urge anybody who has any information surrounding what happened yesterday to please make contact with Thames Valley Police."
Earlier Det Spt Brown said the area was popular with dog walkers and he believed there would be witnesses.She added: "This student was part of our community and many students and staff knew him well. For a life to be ended at such a young age is a total tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.