Five children, three of whom are 12 years old, have been arrested in the United Kingdom on suspicion of killing an 80-year-old man who died as a result of a “serious” assault in a park.
Leicestershire Police announced on Tuesday that they had opened a murder inquiry after the elderly man died in hospital following injuries sustained on Sunday evening.
Officers have detained five people on suspicion of murder: a 14-year-old boy and girl, as well as a 12-year-old boy and two females.
The attack occurred near the park entrance, according to the police, and some young people left the area before help could reach.
Anyone who was at the park or nearby at the time of the incident is wanted to talk with the police. Sadly, this has now turned into a murder inquiry as the victim passed away yesterday night, according to Senior Investigating Officer Insp. Emma Matts.
What they’re saying
“We have made a number of arrests as we continue to piece together the specifics of the attack, and we are working quickly to do so.
“A scene preservation will be in place at the park while our inquiry is ongoing.”Local officers are also in the area carrying out re-assurance patrols and can speak with anyone in the local community who has concerns.
“Leicestershire Police stated in a statement that it will make a voluntary referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct due to previous engagement with the victim.
Bottom Line
The arrest of children for such a violent act points to underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as family environment, social influences, and possibly gang-related activities.
The police’s previous engagement with the victim and their referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) also suggest that there may have been prior issues that could have been addressed differently. This aspect will need careful examination to ensure accountability and transparency.
