Two teenagers, 15, charged with murder of Brianna Ghey in Warrington
A video report by Granada Reports Journalist Claire Hannah
Two teenagers have been charged with the murder of Brianna Ghey, who was stabbed to death in a park in Warrington.
The body of the 16-year-old, from Birchwood in Warrington, was discovered in Linear Park, Culcheth on Saturday afternoon, 11 February 2023.
Cheshire Police say a 15-year-old girl, from Warrington, and a 15-year-old boy, from Leigh, were charged on Wednesday, 15 February.
The pair appeared at Chester Magistrates' Court the same day, where they were remanded into youth detention.
Prosecutor Leanne Gallagher told the court Brianna’s death was “extremely brutal and punishing”.
Police were exploring whether Brianna, who was a transgender girl, was the victim of a hate crime.
The two teens appeared separately in the dock and spoke only to confirm their names and addresses during the short hearing.
Both were supported by their parents in court, and were flanked by one dock officer throughout the hearing.
The mother and father of the girl both appeared emotional as their daughter was brought into court.
They were both remanded into youth detention by District Judge Jack McGarva to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, 16 February.
In a tribute issued after Brianna’s death on behalf of her family, they said the teenager was a “much-loved daughter, granddaughter, and baby sister”
The statement continued: “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.”
A GoFundMe crowdfunding page set up to help Brianna’s family has passed £88,000 just two days after it was launched.