Detectives have been given a rare extension to question three men arrested in the Olivia Pratt-Korbel murder investigation.
Merseyside Police have arrested four men in the last 24 hours in connection with the murder of nine-year-old schoolgirl Olivia Pratt-Korbel. Police have now been granted a further extension of 36 hours to continue questioning three of the men.
Those being questioned are a 34-year-old man, from Runcorn, who was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and a 41-year-old man from Knowsley and a 29-year-old man, who have both been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.
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A fourth man who was arrested last night is still being interviewed by detectives.
Olivia was at home with her mum and older siblings in Kingsheath Avenue, Dovecot, when a gunman burst through the door at around 10pm on Monday, August 22. The killer was in pursuit of 35-year-old Joseph Nee, who forced his way into the house after noticing Olivia's mum, 46-year-old Cheryl Korbel, open the door to see what was going on outside
The investigation into Olivia's tragic murder is ongoing and police said they still need to build up a strong evidential picture so they can bring those responsible to justice. Police being given extra time to question suspects is quite rare, with the option only being offered by a senior officer or magistrate for very serious or complex investigations.
Detective Chief Superintendent and Head of Investigations, Mark Kameen, said: “I continue to urge anyone who has information that can help our investigation into Olivia’s tragic murder to please come forward so we can bring those responsible to justice.
“A number of people have been arrested in respect of this investigation. However, we still need the public’s help in ensuring that we can a build a strong evidential picture so justice is served for Olivia and her family.
“With this, I appeal for those who may have information, no matter how small, that could continue to help our inquiries to contact us directly or anonymously and we will do the rest.”
If the police need further time for questioning they have to apply to magistrates and they may be granted up to a total of 96 hours.
Anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111. Any CCTV/dashcam/smart doorbell footage that could help our inquiries they can be downloaded on the dedicated public portal for Olivia's murder, which will go straight through to the investigation team. Footage can be submitted here Public Portal (mipp.police.uk).
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