Jess Battison
The family of 'amazing' 12-year-old boy who was stabbed to death in Birmingham have paid tribute.
Leo Ross died after he was stabbed on Tuesday (21 January). And West Midlands police have now confirmed a 14-year-old has been charged with his murder.
The boy's family said in a statement: "We want everyone to know what an amazing, kind, loving boy Leo was.
"Not only has Leo’s life been taken, all of our lives have as well.
"Leo will be truly missed by all of us. He was loved so much by everyone.
"The family want to thank the school, the police and everyone involved in the investigation and supporting us all through this horrific time."
.jpg)
Leo is believed to have been making way home from school in Yardley Wood when he was stabbed.
Members of the public came to help him and called for emergency services but he sadly died in hospital at about 7:30pm that evening.
Police issued a statement today to say that the 14-year-old had been charged with his murder as well as six counts of assault and possession of a bladed article.
"We have charged a 14-year-old boy with the murder of Leo Ross, who died after being stabbed in Hall Green on Tuesday," it reads.
“The boy, who can’t be named for legal reasons, has been remanded into custody to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday having been charged this afternoon with Leo’s murder and possession of a bladed article.
“As a result of a thorough investigation and review of all available evidence, we have also charged the 14-year-old boy with six additional assaults, none of which involved the use of a knife.”
In a tribute released earlier this week, Diane Henson, executive headteacher at Leo’s school, Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy, described the boy's death as a tragedy.
“Leo was a lively and happy young man. He had many very good friends who he absolutely adored, and they adored him," she said.
“He was just a lovely and bright member of the school community. We’re supporting the children at school and are opening a book of condolence with the family’s permission.
“Our thoughts are with Leo’s family and all his friends today.”
More to follow.