First Photo Released of Accused Killer
An 18-year-old woman faces murder charges after a 16-year-old schoolgirl was stabbed to death in Leeds last weekend. Chloe Watson Dransfield was found with multiple knife wounds early Saturday on Kennerleigh Avenue, Austhorpe. The fatal attack left her stabbed in the neck and back.
For the first time, 18-year-old Kayla Smith, accused of the murder, has been pictured. Smith, a self-employed beautician running ‘Luxe Aesthetics’ from her granddad’s Leeds home, appeared in court alongside two other teenagers charged in connection with the case.
Three Teens Held Over Murder
- Kayla Smith, 18
- Archie Rycroft, 19
- A 17-year-old boy (name withheld)
Another 18-year-old man remains in custody, while a separate 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl have been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Family Mourns, Calls for Justice
Chloe’s cousin, Shantelle Watson, set up a GoFundMe to cover funeral costs. She said,
“My 16-year-old cousin’s life was sadly taken in tragedy. She didn’t even make it to 18 – her whole life was taken in a flash over a boy. Her mum is distraught; she has left two younger siblings behind.”
Shantelle added, “She was so full of life, such an innocent, beautiful soul taken too soon.”
Police Appeal for Help
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, leading the investigation, said,
“Our thoughts remain with Chloe’s family at this incredibly difficult time. Our specially-trained officers continue to provide them with support. Five people arrested on suspicion of murder remain in custody as we work to uncover the full circumstances.”
He urged anyone with information to come forward.
This brutal killing over a teenage row is nothing short of tragic. Chloe was just 16, stabbed in cold blood on the streets of Leeds. Our thoughts are with her family. Let’s hope justice is swift and harsh.
