Boy, 12, stabbed to death named for first time as school pays tribute

Tributes have been paid to a “lively and happy” 12-year-old boy stabbed to death in Birmingham yesterday.

Leo Ross was killed after being stabbed in broad daylight near Scribers Lane in Hall Green at approximately 3.15pm.

The West Midlands force said he was stabbed in the stomach and taken to hospital but sadly died at around 7.30pm.

Leo was a pupil at Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy and had been making the 10-minute walk home when the attack happened.

The school’s executive head teacher Diane Henson paid tribute to the youngster, describing him as a “lively and happy young man” with “many very good friends”.

Ms Henson said Leo was “just a lovely and bright member of the school community.

She said this afternoon: “Leo was a lively and happy young man.

“He had many very good friends who he absolutely adored, and they adored him.

“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.”

Police also confirmed that the teenager had also been arrested in connection with an unrelated assault on a woman in her 80s earlier this week.

Chief Superintendent Richard North, Birmingham Local Policing Area commander, said: “I would ask the public and the media not to speculate on the motive of this incident, the investigation is in the early stages and we have someone in custody.

“I would urge anyone who saw what happened, or who has CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage from the area at the time to get in touch with us as soon as possible to help us build as clear a picture as possible.

“This is an appalling and senseless attack. We are doing everything we can to support the loved ones of the young boy who lost his life in such an appalling way, but we know that nothing we say or do will diminish their agony.

“Parents around the country will hear this news and be unable to comprehend the pain they must be feeling.

“Our hearts go out to the young boy’s family today.