Police have offered specialist support to people who witnessed an horrific knife attack on a seven-year-old girl in Bolton.
The cordon in Queen's Park has now been lifted, and the park shut as part of measures to stop the spread of coronavirus.
The victim was walking with her family in the park, near Bolton town centre, when she was stabbed to death in an 'unprovoked and random attack' on Sunday afternoon.
A 30-year-old woman, who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder has been assessed by specialist medical staff and detained under the Mental Health Act.
Police say she remains in a highly secure facility.
The woman is not known to the family of the little girl.
Officers have also appealed for witnesses, including those with images or footage that may be of assistance, to get in touch.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison, Territorial Commander for Wigan, Bolton and Bury, said: “There are no words that can express how tragic yesterday’s incident was. An innocent 7-year-old girl lost her life in such a cruel way and our family liaison officers are doing their upmost to support her family.
“Queen’s Park has now been closed in line with Government advice concerning the country’s response to Coronavirus. The police cordon has been lifted but there will continue to be a heavy police presence in the area throughout the coming days.
“We understand that a number of people witnessed this horrific incident. If you or anyone you know has been affected by what happened, we have ensured that specialist support is available via Bolton Council on 01204 333 333.”
“Our officers’ thoughts are very much with the little girl and her family as we continue with our investigation and I would ask any witnesses or anyone with any information to get in touch with our investigative team on the below numbers.”
Anyone with any information should contact police on 0161 856 8797 or 101 quoting incident number 1430 of the 22/03/20, or email 69851@gmp.pnn.police.uk.
Footage or images should be sent to scd.cctv@gmp.police.uk.
Reports can also be made anonymously, via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
