Boy, 15, dies after stabbing near Horsforth school as teen arrested

A 15-year-old boy has died after a stabbing near a school in Leeds.

Police were called to reports a teenager had been stabbed in the Town Street area of Horsforth near St Margaret's Primary School at around 3pm on Tuesday, 7 November.

West Yorkshire Police has confirmed he was taken to hospital in a critical condition but later died from his injuries.

The force said a teenage boy has been arrested in connection with the incident.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Stacey Atkinson said: “Our investigation is at an early stage and we are carrying out extensive inquiries to establish exactly what led to this needless loss of a young man’s life.

“We understand the immense impact and huge shock a tragic incident of this nature will will have on the community locally.

“Our neighbourhood police team are working with partners, including schools in the area to offer support and reassurance.

“We have already spoken to a number of witnesses and are keen to hear from anyone who has information about the incident.”

In a statement to parents earlier this afternoon, the headteacher of Horsforth School said that the 15-year-old boy was a former student.

Dr Paul Bell added: "Our thoughts and sympathies lie with his family at this time while the student is receiving medical treatment."

A group of young people held a candlelit vigil on Broadgate Lane this evening to pay tribute to the teenager this evening.

While the local church, St Margaret's, has been open for people to get support.

The MP for Pudsey, Stuart Andrew, has called the incident "deeply shocking and distressing."

The MP said he "cannot imagine" how the teenager's family is feeling and said his "thoughts are prayers are with them at this dreadful time."

He added: "I am also thinking about the pupils, teachers and staff at Horsforth school, who I know will be devastated.

"The whole community will be stunned by this as the school is such a proud part of the town, which is a peaceful and welcoming place."

The Chair of Horsforth Town Council said: "To know that it was outside a school, it just brings home that sense of just how upsetting it is."

Cllr Simon Dowling said: "If there is anything we can do in the community to support them [the family] in the coming days and weeks then we are here for them. I want them to know that we are here for them."

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