A murder investigation has been launched after a teenager was fatally stabbed in a Black Country park. Detectives were said to be “working flat out to find whoever is responsible” for the boy’s death at West Park, Wolverhampton, today (Thursday, March 7).
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 4.30pm. Sadly, the teen was declared dead a short time later.
The victim has not been named. West Midlands Police say officers are “working to confirm his identity”.
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The force said enquiries were at an “early stage” as it appealed for witnesses to come forward. Below you’ll find everything we know about the tragic incident so far.
You can also view the latest updates on our live blog here.
What happened at West Park?
West Park has been cordoned off after a teenager was stabbed to death on Thursday afternoon (March 7). Passers-by reported seeing a “big police presence”, including armed officers.
The Midlands Air Ambulance was also at the scene at around 4.30pm. Sadly, the teen was declared dead a short time later, with police working to confirm his identity.
Has anyone been arrested?
It would appear that no arrests have been made as of yet. West Midlands Police said enquiries were in the “early stages”.
Detectives were said to be “working flat out to find whoever is responsible and bring them into custody as soon as possible”.
Are police still at West Park?
A cordon is still in place at the park. West Midlands Police said it would be increasing patrols in the area to offer reassurance to the community, and supporting everyone affected, over the coming days.
Police officers are based on every entrance on the park tonight. A blue forensics tent has been set up around 100 yards into the park.
Our reporter said police were mainly at the Park Road East entrance to the Wolverhampton park, opposite Kingsland Road. Forensic officers were still working at the scene at 9.30pm.
What have local residents said?
A 36-year-old woman, who lives by the park, told BirminghamLive: “I just think it’s horrific that it’s happening on our doorstep. A girl was stabbed in the park a few years ago.
“I’ve lived here most of my life and felt it was safe until the earlier incident. Everyone around here is friendly it’s a very multicultural area, everyone looks out for each I’m beyond shocked this has occurred. What worries me is the future for the youth.”
Another passer by told our reporter: “When I came home from work, I saw all the police. I was on jury service earlier this year. This brings it all back. It’s so sad.”
A local shopkeeper said they were ‘not surprised’ to hear of the tragic incident in the park.
What do I do if I have information about the West Park stabbing?
Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with police via the live chat facility at www.west-midlands.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting log 3259 of March 7. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
