Three people have been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of Chloe Watson Dransfield, a 16-year-old girl from Gomersal, West Yorkshire. The incident occurred around 5:55 AM on Saturday on Kennerleigh Avenue in Austhorpe, Leeds.
Key Takeaways
Three individuals have been charged with murder in the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Chloe Watson Dransfield on a residential street in Leeds. Police are appealing for mobile phone footage believed to be circulating online that may capture details of the attack.
- Three charged: Kayla Smith, Archie Rycroft, and an unnamed 17-year-old boy
- Victim's family describes her as 'beautiful princess' with a joyful personality
- Police confirm video evidence exists and urge public to come forward
- Fundraising page raises over £10,000 for funeral arrangements
Chloe was found unconscious with multiple stab wounds and later pronounced dead at the hospital despite efforts by nearby residents who attempted CPR. According to neighbors, she had been stabbed in the back. Police have arrested five teenagers on suspicion of murder, including two women aged 18, a man aged 19 or 20 (reports vary), and two boys aged 17.
The family of Chloe Watson Dransfield has released a heartfelt tribute describing her as their 'beautiful princess' and expressing their devastation. Her mother described Chloe as 'stunning, confident, loyal, honest,' while her father noted that she was 'full of joy' with a 'wonderfully cheeky personality.' The family's statement highlights the profound impact Chloe had on those around her.
Floral tributes and messages have been left at the scene. One message addressed to 'my beautiful girl' said: 'Rest easy my Chloe. Love you forever my crazy girl,' according to BBC. A fundraising page set up by a relative has raised over £10,000 to help give Chloe the best send-off possible.
The three individuals charged with murder are Kayla Smith, 18, of Kennerleigh Avenue; Archie Rycroft, 19, of Middleton Park Road; and an unnamed 17-year-old boy. They have all been remanded in custody to appear before Leeds Magistrates' Court later. An additional 18-year-old man from Leeds remains in custody on suspicion of murder, while another 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on bail.
Detective Chief Superintendent Marc Bowes, the senior investigating officer, has appealed for anyone with information about the incident to come forward. He emphasized the importance of any details that could assist in the ongoing investigation. The community has expressed shock and sadness over the tragic event, describing the area as usually quiet and peaceful.
Detectives are appealing for mobile phone footage of the attack believed to be circulating online. Det Ch Insp James Entwistle stated: 'We need that video. Chloe's family need answers as to why she died.' He confirmed police believe the attack was captured on a phone and is being shared across social media, urging anyone with information about the video to come forward.
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