Tragedy in Emmer Green: Teenager Oliver Stephens, 13, Stabbed to Death
Five Teens Arrested Over Murder of Schoolboy
A 13-year-old schoolboy, Oliver Stephens, has been named as the victim of a shocking stabbing on Sunday afternoon in Emmer Green. Murder Squad detectives swooped early Monday, arresting five teenagers — four boys and one girl aged between 13 and 14 — on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder.
The youngsters remain in custody at Reading Police Station as investigators piece together the tragic events. Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Team is leading the probe into this heartbreaking case.
Scene of Horror Marked by Blue Tent
Oliver was stabbed in the neck on the grassland of Bugs Bottom fields near St Barnabas Road and Gravel Hill. Police officers desperately tried to save him using first aid kits, but sadly Oliver died at the scene, now marked by a blue tent.
Forensics teams have sealed off Gravel Hill Road, conducting house-to-house inquiries as they hunt for clues.
Family Mourns as Sister Pledges Justice
“I’m so sorry I failed you, I wish I could have saved you from it all. We will get justice for you, my angel.” – Emilia Stephens, Oliver’s sister
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown, head of Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit, urged anyone with information to come forward:
“This remains a very active investigation. We’ve arrested five young people, but I urge anybody who saw anything around 4pm on Sunday to contact Thames Valley Police.”
Witnesses can call 101 quoting incident 1069 of 3 January or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
