12-year-old boy stabbed in Birmingham, suspect arrested

A 12-year-old boy, Leo Ross, tragically died after being stabbed in the stomach near Scribers Lane in Birmingham.

West Midlands Police confirmed he passed away in hospital following the attack, described as "senseless and appalling."

Leo, a student at Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy, was remembered as a "lively, happy young man" by his headteacher, Diane Henson.

She shared that Leo was "just a lovely and bright member of the school community" and had many friends who adored him.

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police confirmed the suspect is also under investigation for an unrelated assault on a woman in her 80s last week.

The incident occurred near a railway bridge by Trittiford Mill Park, a busy area surrounded by schools and shops.

Floral tributes and heartfelt messages have been left at the scene, with one reading, "Our lives won't be the same without you."

West Midlands Police Chief Superintendent Richard North called for witnesses and urged against speculation about the motive. The force has also increased local patrols to reassure the community.

Knife crime figures show the West Midlands has the highest rate in England and Wales. Alison Cope, a campaigner against youth violence, emphasised the need for early intervention, starting with education for younger children about the dangers of carrying knives.

Leo’s family described him as "funny, sweet and without an aggressive bone in his body."

His death has reignited calls for stronger measures to combat knife crime.