Thousands hold vigils across UK for Brianna Ghey after teen stabbed to death

1017     0
Mourners attend a candlelit vigil in memory of Brianna (Image: Getty Images)
Mourners attend a candlelit vigil in memory of Brianna (Image: Getty Images)

Thousands of Brits are coming out to hold candlelit vigils paying tribute to teenage girl Brianna Ghey.

The 16-year-old tragically died after she was found with stab wounds in Linear Park in Culcheth, near Warrington, on Saturday.

Brianna was transgender and her death is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

Hundreds of people showed their solidarity at vigils in Liverpool and Bristol on Tuesday evening, with further events planned across the country later this week and at the weekend.

About 500 people turned out holding signs showing Brianna's picture and messages of support for the trans community at Liverpool's St George's Hall on Tuesday, as candles were lit on the building's steps.

Labour MP makes gun reform plea and says laws needed to tackle incel violence qhidqxidezixtinvLabour MP makes gun reform plea and says laws needed to tackle incel violence
Thousands hold vigils across UK for Brianna Ghey after teen stabbed to deathThe 16-year-old's friend claims that Brianna was targeted because she was transgender but police say there is no evidence to suggest this (Cheshire Police)

The city centre landmark was poignantly lit in blue and pink - the colours of the transgender pride flag - as attendees sit and stood in silence.

A vigil at Bristol's College Green meanwhile was organised by Trans Pride South West.

Events have also been arranged by the LGBTQ+ community for London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Brighton and other major cities.

Thousands hold vigils across UK for Brianna Ghey after teen stabbed to deathPeople held candles and signs at Bristol's College Green following news of Brianna's death (PA)

Cheshire Police meanwhile has been granted a 30-hour extension, after officers arrested a boy and girl, both 15, on suspicion of her murder.

The force said it was exploring all lines of enquiry, with the possibility of a hate crime also being looked into.

A statement issued by Brianna's family described her as "fearless", "witty" and "much-loved", as well as a "larger-than-life character".

"Brianna was a much-loved daughter, granddaughter and baby sister," her family said on Monday.

"She was a larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her.

Thousands hold vigils across UK for Brianna Ghey after teen stabbed to deathCandles were lit in her memory (Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)

"Brianna was beautiful, witty and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless and one of a kind."

They added: "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.

Gunman opens fire in synagogue in city just days after posting Nazi imageryGunman opens fire in synagogue in city just days after posting Nazi imagery

"We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support at this extremely difficult time. We would like to thank the police for their support and witnesses for their help in the investigation."

Susie Beever

Print page

Comments:

comments powered by Disqus