Police investigating the fatal stabbing of Brianna Ghey say they are exploring “all lines of enquiry” – including whether she was targeted in a hate crime.
The 16-year-old, who was transgender, was found on a pathway with serious injuries in Culcheth Linear Park, Cheshire, at around 3pm on Saturday.
Emergency services were called but Brianna, from Birchwood in Warrington, Cheshire, died at the scene.
Cheshire Police have arrested a boy and girl, both 15 years old and from the local area, on suspicion of murdering Brianna.
Detectives previously said there was “no evidence to suggest that the circumstances surrounding Brianna’s death were hate-related”.
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‘This has left a massive hole in our family’
Two teenagers arrested over stabbing
However, in an update on Tuesday, a spokesperson for the force said: “All lines of enquiry are being explored, including whether this was a hate crime.
“Please continue to avoid speculation online and be wary of sharing misinformation relating to this case.”
The force also said detectives had been granted another 30 hours to question the two suspects.
‘Strong, fearless and one of a kind’
It comes after Brianna’s family paid tribute, describing her as a “larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her”.
In a statement, the family said: “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.”
Brianna’s school ‘shocked and devastated’
Emma Mills, headteacher at Brianna’s school Birchwood Community High School, said: “We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of the death of Brianna.
“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.”
Damian Harry, whose daughters knew Brianna, said they were in “disbelief” and had been left “needing to take painkillers for stress”.
He added: “Brianna was just a beautiful young girl, quite active on social media like my daughters – they were just in each other’s worlds.”
Mermaids, a charity that supports trans and gender-diverse children, young people and families, said: “Our thoughts are with the loved ones of Brianna Ghey, a trans teenager who was murdered in Cheshire this weekend.”