Brianna Ghey cops given longer to question teens arrested on suspicion of murder
Police investigating the murder of Brianna Ghey have been granted an extension of 30 hours to further question two suspects – a boy and a girl, both aged 15.
Brianna, 16, who was transgender, was found on a path at Linear Park in Culcheth, Warrington, by members of the public, on Saturday afternoon around 3.15.
The two 15-year-olds, both from the local area, were arrested on Sunday on suspicion of murder.
In a statement, Chesire Police said: “Police investigating the murder of Brianna Ghey have been granted an extension of 30 hours to further question two suspects – a boy and a girl, both aged 15.
“All lines of enquiry are being explored, including whether this was a hate crime."
Girl, 16, stabbed to death in park - and police want to speak to man and woman
The force, which earlier said Briana had suffered multiple stab wounds in a "targeted attack", was still appealing for information about her death.
Floral tributes left at the scene where Brianna's body was found (Getty Images)Local residents have also been asked to send CCTV footage and dashcam clips that may assist.
On Monday a police spokeswoman acknowledged Brianna was transgender but said: “There is nothing at this stage to suggest that this has any relevance at all to her murder.”
She added: “At this stage we don’t have a motive, we are piecing together lots of information and that is why we are asking for the public’s help in identifying anyone who may be able to help us. Officers are trawling CCTV and piecing together Brianna’s last movement.”
Police at Linear Park (Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)In a statement from family released by Police, Brianna's family remembered their "much loved daughter, granddaughter, and baby sister".
"She was a larger than life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her," they 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."
Brianna was stabbed to death in Warrington (Gofundme)The family went on to thank everyone for their kind words and support during an "extremely difficult" time and extend their gratitude to police and witnesses for their support with the investigation.
'Lovely' teenager, 16, found stabbed to death in park died in 'targeted attack'
Tributes have flooded in to Brianna with friends expressing their "grief and anger" while the headteacher at Birchwood High School, where she was a student, said they were "devastated".
Headteacher Emma Mills said: "We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of the death of Brianna.
Police, forensics and floral tributes at the Park where Brianna was fatally stabbed (William Lailey / SWNS)“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.”
Concerns had been raised on social media about alleged bullying Brianna had faced at Birchwood High, though the school has not commented on the allegations.
Others from the trans community said they were "terrified" at the news of the teen's passing and called for the government to offer more protection.
LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall paid tribute to Brianna on Monday morning, with a post on social media that said their thoughts were with her and her loved ones following her "tragic murder".
A fundraiser been set up to help Brianna's family with funeral costs for their "outgoing, confident" girl had raised more than £71,000 at the time of writing.
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