Two teenage boys have been charged with the murder of a 16-year-old who was stabbed to death in Bristol park.
Darrien Williams was attacked in Rawnsley Park in Easton last Wednesday by two people wearing masks who left the scene on bikes, before running to Stapleton Road where he was assisted by a motorist.
After being attacked, Darrien ran to nearby Stapleton Road where he was helped by a motorist before collapsing in West Street, Old Market. He died at the scene.
Two boys, both aged 15, were arrested on suspicion of murder and formally charged by the Crown Prosecution Service today. The teens have also each been charged with possessing a knife in a public place.
The boys currently remain in police custody and are scheduled to appear at Bristol Youth Court tomorrow.
Two teenage boys have been charged with the murder of 16-year-old Darrien Williams (pictured), who was stabbed to death in Bristol park last week
Darrien Williams was attacked in Rawnsley Park in Easton last Wednesday by two people wearing masks. Police and forensic offers are pictured at the scene on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024
Two boys, both aged 15, were arrested and charged with suspicion of murder, as well as possessing a knife in a public place. A police tent is pictured at Rawnsley Park on Thursday, February 15, 2024 as officers carried out their investigation
Floral tributes were left at the scene on West Street, Old Market, where died after being stabbed last Wednesday evening
Police were called by the ambulance service to West Street last Wednesday at 6pm to a report that a teenager – later identified as Darrien – had been found injured.
Darrien died at the scene despite the efforts of emergency services.
Avon and Somerset police arrested two 15-year-old boys on suspicion of murder on Thursday evening. The Crown Prosecution Service has tonight authorised charges against the boys following a review of the evidence collated.
Darrien’s family have been notified and are being supported by specialist liaison officers.
Detective Inspector Neil Meade, the senior investigating officer, said: ‘Our thoughts tonight are with Darrian’s family following this development.
‘We continue to deploy significant resources into the investigation and we will keep them fully informed as it progresses.’
He added: ‘Knife crime destroys lives and we’re committed to working with our partners and the communities we serve to do everything we can to prevent tragic incidents such as this from happening and to educate young people about the consequences of carrying a knife.’
In response to Darrien’s murder and other instances in recent weeks, the force has introduced enhanced stop-and-search powers in parts of Bristol. A new police operation targeting youth violence has also been launched.
Officers have met with headteachers to discuss how police can provide support and reassurance ahead of pupils returning to school from half term.
There will be additional patrols outside schools next week, while a mobile police station will be in the area over the coming days.
The killing comes weeks after the deaths of Mason Rist, 15, and Max Dixon, 16, who were stabbed in the Knowle West area of the city.
Police are asking for anyone who witnessed the incident or with helpful video footage to come forward and can call 101, quoting reference 5224039827.
