MEMBERS of the Hexham community have been thanked for their efforts in trying to help a fatal stabbing victim.

Chief Superintendent Sam Rennison, of Northumbria Police, told a press conference held at Hexham police station, how members of the public assisted the 15-year-old, named locally as Holly Netwon and Holly Olivia, and a 16-year-old boy after a suspected double stabbing on Priestpopple.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of assault and later on suspicion of murder on Friday night near a pizzeria.

READ MORE: https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/23283887.hexham-stabbing-victim-named-locally-holly-newton/

Area commander for Northumberland and North Tyneside Ch Supt Rennision said: "I can confirm we have launched a murder investigation following the tragic death of a 15-year-old girl.

"First and foremost, our hearts go out to her loved ones at this truly devastating time.

"A 16-year-old boy who was also injured during the incident remains in hospital in a stable condition. He and his family are also very much in our thoughts and we wish him all the best and a speedy recovery.

"Specially trained officers will continue to support the families in any way they can.

"The tragic news comes after we were contacted shortly after 5.10pm by the ambulance service to reports of a teenage boy and girl being injured in the Priestopple area of the town centre.

"Emergency services attended the scene, where they found the boy and girl suffered serious injuries consistent with being caused by a bladed weapon.

"An investigation was immediately launched, and while this is at the very early stages, we do believe all those involved are known to each other.

"I can confirm a 16-year-old boy initially arrested on suspicion of assault has now been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody at this time.

"We are determined to find out exactly what happened and bring anyone involved to justice.

"We recognise the impact that these incidents can have within communities and our officers will remain in the area to carry out a range of inquiries.

"If anyone has any concerns, we would ask that you speak directly to those officers.

"We would like to thank the public for their continued support and cooperation - in particular, those who tried to provide assistance to the injured boy and girl at the scene.

"We would ask people not to speculate on the details of this investigation and continue to respect the privacy of the families involved who are trying hard to process what happened. 

"What might seem like an innocent post on social media, could in reality, disrupt an ongoing investigation and cause further upset to the family of these victims.

"We'd like to ask that if you did see something or have information, relating to what happened, and have not yet spoken to officers, you do contact us.

"Our region is a safe place to live and we are committed to doing all we can and working with our partners to ensure it continues to be so."