13-Year-Old Boy Fatally Stabbed in Emmer Green Park
Police were scrambled just before 4pm to Bugs Bottom fields near St Barnabus Road, Gravel Hill, Emmer Green, following reports of a stabbing. Tragically, a 13-year-old boy died at the scene.
The victim’s family have been informed and are being supported by trained officers. No formal ID has yet taken place, and no arrests have been made.
Police Hunt Two or Three Suspects Who Fled Scene
Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown of Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit said the investigation is “fast-moving and dynamic” but still in its early stages. He revealed the boy was attacked by two or three males who fled towards Hunters Chase.
“There will be a heavy police presence in the area for days,” Brown warned. “We believe dog walkers and local residents may have witnessed the attack or seen the suspects escaping.”
Police Appeal for Witnesses and Dashcam Footage
Officers have urged anyone in the area between 3pm and 4.30pm on January 3 to check dashcams, headcams, and any smartphone photos or CCTV footage. This could be vital to catching the perpetrators.
“If you were driving, cycling or walking in Gravel Hill around that time, please review any footage or photos and contact us,” said Brown. “We need to piece together what happened.”
Anyone with information should call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting incident reference 1069 of January 3, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Community Left Shocked as Police Vow to Find Killers
Superintendent Nick John, Reading’s local policing commander, acknowledged the community’s fears. “This is an utterly shocking incident,” he said. “We are working around the clock to find those responsible and bring them to justice.”
He reassured locals police have deployed a large number of officers to the area and urged anyone with information to come forward confidentially.
“We leave no stone unturned,” John said. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family during this heartbreaking time.”
