Gloucester stabbing: Murder probe after 16-year-old dies

Police have named the victim of a fatal stabbing in Gloucester as 16-year-old Ramarni Crosby.

Officers were called to reports of an attack in Stratton Road, Gloucester, shortly after 18:00 GMT on Wednesday, he later died in hospital.

Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Gloucestershire Police Ch Insp Rich Pegler said the "horrific incident" was "even more tragic because of the young age of the victim".

"This once again shows the devastating impact that knife crime can have.

"We know that the police have a significant role to play, alongside other agencies and our communities, to tackle the issue of violence on our streets."

Official identification has yet to take place but the family of Mr Crosby, known to family and friends as 'Marni', had been informed, police said.

"Our thoughts go out to them at this devastating time."

The force said family liaison officers were supporting his relatives.

Officers would patrol the area and roads including part of Stratton Road where the stabbing happened remained closed, it said.

"We would also urge anyone who has not already spoken to us, or anyone who has video footage of the incident, to contact us and not to post it on social media," the spokesman added.

Councillor Usman Bhaimia, for the Barton and Tredworth ward, said: "The whole community is stunned.

"They don't know what to do. It is not the first time it has happened here. I'm very concerned about this.

"I'm really worried for young people here and the elderly.

"They don't feel safe at all at the moment."

Ahmad Iqbal said: "I live a few doors down from the incident.

"It is worrying and frightening. We heard about those things happening... but not on your doorstep.

"The police did door-to-door yesterday and we have been assured everything is ok.

"There is a lot of worry, especially with the young kids.

"Most people were awake all night, coming in and out, trying to find out what is happening.

"We just want the local community and police force to sort out this anti-social behaviour.

"They are trying their best as well as we are to find a way out of it… but still things are happening."

Reverend Juliet Jensen, vicar at St James and All Saints and Christ Church, said the church would be open from 15:00 GMT for people to light candles and leave messages in a book of condolence.

"There is nothing we can do to make this better at this moment in time for this family or the community that is feeling really shocked and disturbed by all this, but we can gather together," she said.

"Any life taken in that way is devastating and tragic.

"It is completely unacceptable.

"It is also particularly devastating when it is someone who has such potential in their life ahead of them."

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