A 14-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of 12-year-old British schoolboy Leo Ross, who was fatally stabbed in the stomach in a park in Birmingham, UK.
The teenager, who cannot be named due to his age, was arrested by West Midlands Police on Tuesday, approximately four hours after Leo was attacked on the riverside path in the Hall Green area of the city. The boy has been charged with murder, six counts of assault, and possession of a bladed article.
Leo, a student at Christ Church Church of England Secondary Academy in Yardley Wood, was believed to be on his way home from school when the incident occurred. Despite the efforts of members of the public who rushed to his aid and called emergency services, Leo tragically passed away in the hospital at about 7:30 p.m.
In a statement, Leo’s grieving family expressed their heartbreak, describing him as a “kind, loving boy” who was deeply loved by everyone around him. They said: “We want everyone to know what an amazing, kind, loving boy Leo was. Not only has Leo’s life been taken, all of our lives have as well.
“Leo will be truly missed by all of us. He was loved so much by everyone. The family want to thank the school, the police and everyone involved in the investigation and supporting us all through this horrific time.”
Diane Henson, the executive headteacher at Leo’s school, paid tribute to the young student, describing his death as a “tragedy” and emphasizing his positive presence in the school community.
She said: “Leo was a lively and happy young man. He had many very good friends who he absolutely adored, and they adored him. He was just a lovely and bright member of the school community. We’re supporting the children at school and are opening a book of condolence with the family’s permission. Our thoughts are with Leo’s family and all his friends today.”
The 12-year-old was killed after being attacked in broad daylight while making his way home from school on Tuesday afternoon.
Ishtiaq Shah, whose partner’s mother Janet was Leo’s legal guardian, expressed his sorrow, saying the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss. He added that Leo had been like a big brother to their two young children, who will miss him dearly.
In an effort to prevent further tragedies, Ishtiaq launched a campaign to raise funds for the Daniel Baird Foundation, an anti-knife charity. The campaign has raised almost £6,000 so far to support the charity’s mission of providing products that help stem bleeding from stab wounds.
Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been set up by Kyle Hotchkins from Evesham, Worcestershire, to raise money for Leo’s funeral and to support his family. The campaign has raised £4,700 to date, with any remaining funds to be directed towards a trust fund for Leo’s family and his little sister.
West Midlands Police stated that the 14-year-old boy, who has been remanded in custody, will appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
