Boston stabbing: Girl, 9, knifed to death as police launch murder investigation

A nine-year-old girl has died after a suspected street stabbing in a market town.

Police have launched a murder investigation after the child was killed yesterday evening in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Officers swarmed to Fountain Lane around 6.20pm on Thursday and cordoned off an area outside the historic St Botolph's Church.

Nearby residents believe it was a random attack.

Local MP Matt Warman called the incident "profoundly shocking" and said he has spoken to Policing Minister Tom Pursglove to ensure national assistance would be available for the ongoing probe.

It comes just days after the Mirror revealed children can buy cheap killer knives in high street stores with shocking ease for the same price as a can of soft drink.

Photos from the scene in Boston show two sullen forensic officers in white suits leaving in the early hours of this morning.

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Police were called to the scene around 6.20pm (PA)

Today an officer in a hi-vis jacket was snapped on patrol.

Residents said they heard a helicopter flying overhead last night.

The tragic victim has not been named, though her parents have been informed and will be supported by specialist trained officers, Lincolnshire Police said.

No arrests have been made yet.

Investigators are now urging any witnesses, or anyone with information, to come forward.

A force spokesperson said: "A nine-year-old girl has sadly died from what is believed to be a stab wound in Boston.

A murder investigation has been launched (PA)

"Officers were called to the scene of the incident at Fountain Lane at around 6.20pm today, Thursday, 28 July.

"We have launched a murder investigation. The area has been cordoned off and we will be at the scene for the foreseeable future.

"The young girl’s parents have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time. Her family will be supported by specialist trained officers."

Forensic officers were seen leaving the scene in the early hours (PA)

Mr Warman, Conservative MP for Boston and Skegness, thanked the emergency services for their response.

In a statement, he wrote: "Profoundly shocking news in Boston this evening. My thoughts are with the family of the girl involved - if you have any information that might help the police with their ongoing investigation please use the contact details below.

"I have spoken to senior officers locally and am hugely grateful for all the emergency services’ work.

A crime scene was cordoned off outside the church (PA)

"I have also been in contact with Policing Minister Tom Pursglove to ensure that any national help that might be useful is made available as quickly as possible.

"I would ask that people refrain from speculating while this hugely important police investigation is ongoing. It is vital that those responsible are brought to justice."

If you have any information, you can contact police by calling 101 and quoting incident number 419 of 28 July.

Alternatively, you can email force.control@lincs.police.uk by quoting incident 419 of 28 July in the subject line.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can report information via the independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

The Mirror has contacted Lincolnshire Police for more information.