Boy, 17, stabbed to death with man in his 50s in hospital and six arrested

03 February 2024 , 12:03

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Blake Newland died in hospital after he was stabbed multiple times on Friday night

Six males have been arrested after police launched a murder investigation following the death of a teenager in Co Londonderry.

Blake Newland, 17, died in hospital following a stabbing in Limavady on Friday night. A man in his 50s was also taken to hospital following the incident in the Woodland Walk area at around 9.35pm. Officers remain stationed at a cordoned-off part of a housing estate in the town and forensic markers have been placed near the cordon at Woodland Walk. Four emergency crews, two rapid response paramedics and an ambulance officer were sent to the scene. The three patients were treated at the scene before being taken to Altnagelvin and Causeway Hospitals.

A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said: "Detectives from the Police Service's Major Investigation Team investigating the murder of a boy in Limavady have confirmed the victim was Blake Newland. Blake, who was 17, was from the Limavady area."

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gibson added: “Police received a report at around 9.35pm last night, Friday 2nd February, that a man in his 50s had been stabbed. Officers attended and while carrying out enquiries they located Blake who was also seriously injured with stab wounds in a nearby house. Blake was taken to hospital where he subsequently died from his injuries.

"The second injured man was taken to hospital, where he remains for treatment to injuries which are not believed to be life threatening at this time. "

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Officers have cordoned off part of a housing estate in the town

The officer continued: “Six males have now been arrested and are currently in police custody assisting with enquiries. We are at an early stage of this murder investigation and officers remain in the area conducting enquiries. We are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information to contact detectives on 101 quoting 1924 02/02/24. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

In a family notice seen by Belfast Live, Blake Newland is described as "beloved son of Toni Newland and Simon McElwee. Loving brother of Kyra and Priah, A much loved grandson of Tony and Dorothy Newland, dear nephew of Arlene, Stacey and Kirsty."

PSNI has appealed for any witnesses to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gibson said five males have been arrested and are helping police with their inquiries. He said: "The victim sustained stab wounds in the Woodland Walk area, reported at around 9.35pm. He subsequently died in hospital from his injuries. Another man, aged in his 50s, has been taken to hospital where his condition is described as stable. Five males have all been arrested and are currently assisting police with their inquiries."

He added: “We are appealing to witnesses or anyone with information to contact detectives on 101 quoting 1924 02/02/24. Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video in this breaking news story.

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Niall Deeney