1:43pm Thursday 7th March 2013
STAFF and students at Leasowes High School in Halesowen have been left in shock at the death of pupil Christina Edkins who was stabbed to death on a bus this morning (Thursday).
The 16-year-old was attacked on the number 9 at 7.37am as it made its way along Hagley Road, Birmingham.
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said the schoolgirl’s family are being supported by family liaison officers.
Neil Shaw, headteacher at Leasowes, said staff and students at the school have been left “deeply saddened” by the tragedy.
He said: "Christina was a bright and popular student much loved by staff and students alike. Our thoughts and hearts go out to her family and everyone who knew her.
“The school is working closely with the police and a team of counsellors to provide support to our pupils and staff."
A 22-year-old man has now been arrested following a massive manhunt in Birmingham.
Police spotted a man acting suspiciously and after a footchase he was arrested near Morrisons supermarket and is now being held on suspicion of murder.
Detectives from the force’s Criminal Investigation Department are continuing to work alongside specialist Forensic Scene Investigators at the scene to identify CCTV systems which may have captured the incident on camera.
Detective Superintendent Richard Baker from Force CID said: “This is a tragic case and the victim’s family are devastated.
“We are still anxious to hear from anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident this morning to speak to us via the dedicated hotline 0800 096 0095.
“There will be a high police presence across the city this afternoon following this morning’s tragedy particularly on buses and in schools in the area to provide reassurance to local people.”
Anyone with information can also call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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