TWO teenagers have been arrested after a schoolboy was found stabbed to death in woodland at a popular park.
Cops launched a murder investigation after the victim, 15, died following the alleged attack in Guilford, Surrey, on Monday evening.
Emergency services – including police, ambulance and fire crews – were scrambled to Stoke Park near the A25 Parkway at around 6.10pm.
The 15-year-old was discovered with “serious injuries” and received immediate treatment.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of medics and members of the public who assisted, the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two boys, aged 15 and 16, have since been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Surrey Police confirmed the victim’s relatives are being supported by specially-trained officers during this “desperately sad time.”
A murder investigation into the death was launched by the Surrey and Sussex Police Major Crime Team.
One resident, who has lived in Guildford for around 25 years and regularly walks her dog in the area at night, said the incident was “very alarming”.
She said: “It’s absolutely terrible… I’ve never heard of anything like this happening in Guildford – particularly in this area.
“It’s just awful. I walk in this park in the evening, even later than 6pm, so it’s very alarming as well.
“It’s horrible. I hope the murderer will be caught.”
Detective Chief Superintendent White reassured concerned locals that teams were working “at pace” to bring those responsible to justice.
She said: “Yesterday evening, we received a report that a 15-year-old boy had been stabbed in the woods in Stoke Park in Guildford.
“Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services and members of the public at the location, he died shortly afterwards.
“A murder investigation, led by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, is underway.
“We appreciate that this incident would’ve caused shock and concern amongst our local communities.
“Although the circumstances of the boy’s death are not clear, this is a fast-moving investigation and we are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry.
“We would ask that people don’t speculate about what has happened while we work through these enquiries.”
Julia McShane, leader of Guildford Borough Council, also paid tribute to the teenager.
She said: “I am shocked and saddened at this tragic event. The loss of a young life in this way is utterly devastating.
“My heart goes out to their family and friends at this desperately sad time.”
Det Chf Supt White confirmed there would be a “significant police presence” in the affected area.
She added: “A police cordon remains in place, and we respectfully ask that people stay away from the area while we carry out our investigation.
“A significant police presence will remain in the area for some time. The A25 Parkway remains unaffected.
“We are continuing to appeal for any witnesses or anyone in the area around Lido Road, Parkway and Stoke Park between 6pm and 6:20pm or anyone with any information which could help us progress our enquiries to come forward as a matter of urgency.”
