Two teenage boys have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the tragic stabbing of a 15-year-old in woodland near Guildford. The victim, who has not been publicly named, was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency services were called to the area off Lido Road at 6.10pm on Monday, January 19.
Police Launch Urgent Witness Appeal
Surrey Police have launched a fast-moving investigation into the incident, which occurred in a wooded area adjacent to Stoke Park. Detective Chief Superintendent Debbie White has made an urgent plea for witnesses to come forward, stating that officers are working at pace to establish the circumstances surrounding the boy's death.
"We appreciate that this incident will have caused shock and concern amongst our local communities," said Detective Chief Superintendent White. "We want to reassure you that we are working to gather as much evidence as possible and identify those responsible."
Community in Mourning
The local community has been left devastated by the loss of the young life. Guildford City Football Club, whose home ground is situated near the scene, released a statement expressing their profound sadness.
"All of our players, coaching staff, board members, and volunteers send our thoughts and prayers to his family," the club stated on social media platform X.
Local MP Zoe Franklin described the news as "tragic and devastating," while Guildford Borough Council leader Julia McShane said she was "shocked and saddened" by the event, calling the loss of a young life "utterly devastating."
Ongoing Police Investigation
The two arrested boys, aged 15 and 16, remain in custody as police continue their inquiries. A significant police presence remains in the area, with a cordon still in place around the woodland scene.
Detective Chief Superintendent White emphasised: "Although the circumstances of the boy's death are not clear at this time, this is a fast-moving investigation, and we are pursuing a number of lines of inquiry. We would ask that people don't speculate about what might have happened while we work through these inquiries."
Police have respectfully requested that members of the public stay away from the area while forensic examinations and investigative work continue.
How to Provide Information
Surrey Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Witnesses can contact the force by:
- Calling 101 and quoting reference PR/45260006995
- Providing information through the Surrey Police website
- Contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111
- Using the Crimestoppers online reporting system
The investigation continues as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident that has left the Guildford community in mourning.
