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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Dave Higgens

‘Utterly devastated’: Family of girl, 16, who was fatally stabbed in Leeds pay emotional tribute

Chloe Watson Dransfield, 16, died after being stabbed in the Austhorpe area of Leeds on Saturday - (West Yorkshire Police/PA Wire)

The family of a 16-year-old girl who died after being stabbed in Leeds on Saturday said they are “utterly devastated”.

Chloe Watson Dransfield, 16, died in hospital after being found unconscious in the Austhorpe area of the city at around 6am on Saturday morning.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on Monday on suspicion of her murder, West Yorkshire Police said.

Four others remain in custody.

A tribute from her father and other family members said they were “utterly devastated”.

Tributes left at the scene in Kennerleigh Avenue, in the Austhorpe area of Leeds (Dave Higgens/PA Wire)

“We miss every single thing about her. She was beautiful, full of joy, and had a wonderfully cheeky personality.

“She embraced life with such happiness, and she had her whole future ahead of her. Chloe was loved by everyone who knew her, and the absence she leaves behind is immeasurable.

“We will miss her forever, she will never be forgotten. Love you always and forever Dad, Sacha, Reuben, Mia, Amelia, Grandma, Grandad and Uncle Jordan.”

West Yorkshire Police said officers were called to to Kennerleigh Avenue, in the Austhorpe area of the city, at 5.55am on Saturday following reports of a young woman being found unconscious.

She was found to have suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment, but she was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested on Monday on suspicion of her murder, West Yorkshire Police said (Dave Higgens/PA Wire)

A statement from Chloe’s mother said: “My beautiful princess Chloe. I cannot put into words how I feel that you are not here with me.

“You are my life, my world, my best friend and I know that I am yours. I cannot live without you – I need you.

“You are stunning, confident, loyal, honest and my family-oriented princess.

“When you walk into any room it lights up with your bubbly personality. There is so much I could say. There’s a big hole in my heart that can never be filled.

“Your two sisters and big brother will always love and miss you to infinity. You will always and forever be in our hearts. Love Mum, Connor, Courtney and Cienna.”

Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle from the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team is now leading the investigation into Chloe’s death.

He said:“Our thoughts remain with Chloe’s family at this incredibly difficult time. Our specially-trained officers continue to provide them with support.

“Our investigation into her death is ongoing and five people arrested on suspicion of murder remain in custody, as we continue to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“I am appealing to anyone with any relevant information to contact us. If you have any mobile phone footage that you believe might be connected to this incident then you can send it to our Major Incident Public Portal.”

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