Family pays tribute to ‘strong and fearless’ Brianna Ghey stabbed to death in Warrington

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The family of a teenage girl stabbed to death in Warrington over the weekend have now paid an emotional tribute to her.

Brianna Ghey, a transgender girl from Birchwood in Warrington, was found by members of the public as she lay wounded on a path in Culcheth Linear Park at around 3:13pm on Saturday 11 February, and was sadly pronounced dead at the scene by emergency services a short while later.

She was just 16 years old.

Detectives from Cheshire Police confirmed this morning that a 15-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl, both from the Culcheth area, have been arrested on suspicion of murder, and currently remain in custody assisting police with their investigation.

Now, Brianna’s family have paid an emotional tribute to to their “much-loved daughter, granddaughter, and baby sister”.

In a statement released today, the heartbroken family said: “She was a larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her. Brianna was beautiful, witty, and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless, and one of a kind.

“The loss of her young life has left a massive hole in our family, and we know that the teachers and her friends who were involved in her life will feel the same.

“We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.”

Emma Mills – who is the headteacher at Brianna’s school, Birchwood Community High School – said the school and community are “shocked and truly devastated” by Brianna’s death, adding: “This is understandably a very difficult and distressing time for many, and we will do our utmost to support our pupils and wider school community.”

Culcheth Linear Park / Credit: Google Maps

Cheshire Police has also issued a public appeal for information today.

Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Evans has confirmed that “a number of enquiries in relation to this incident are underway” but “at this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the circumstances surrounding Brianna’s death are hate related.”

“We are doing all that we can to establish the exact circumstances of what has happened,” he added.

Appealing for information, DS Evans continued: “I would ask anyone who has any information, no matter how big or small, that they believe could help with our investigation to get in touch. We are also keen for people and businesses within the local community to check any CCTV or dashcam footage for anything that may aid our investigation.”

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Anyone with information is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 1476832 or reporting it via the website. 

Alternatively, information can also be passed on to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Featured Image – Cheshire Police