Two people arrested over fatal stabbing of nine-year-old girl in Lincolnshire

Two people have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a nine-year-old girl in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Officers were called to the scene on Fountain Lane in Boston at around 6.20pm on Thursday.

The victim’s parents have been informed, and the force said their "thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time".

• Chief Superintendent Kate Anderson gives an update from the murder scene

During a press conference, Chief Superintendent Kate Anderson described the girl's death as "an utter tragedy" but added that they believe it to be an isolated incident. She said that police are not yet in a position to release the name of the victim.

She also declined to comment on whether those arrested were adults or juveniles, and would not confirm what offence they were detained on suspicion of.

She said: "We have a number of active lines of inquiry. It would be unfair for me to speculate on potential motives."

She urged anyone who might have been in the area at the time, or who might have any information about the incident, to get in touch.

Specialist detectives are working on the investigation, and patrols have been increased in the area to help reassure the public.

Matt Warman, the Conservative MP for Boston and Skegness, said he had been in contact with the policing minister to ensure national assistance is available to the murder investigation.

Writing on Twitter on Thursday evening, he said: “Profoundly shocking news in Boston this evening.

“I have spoken to senior officers locally and am hugely grateful for all the emergency services’ work.

“I have also been in contact with policing minister Tom Pursglove to ensure that any national help that might be useful is made available as quickly as possible.”

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