Scousers must stand together more than ever in the face of the heartbreaking death of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel, an assistant Mayor of Liverpool said.
Liverpool is reeling from the shocking killing of Olivia, who was shot in her own home in Dovecot last night. Olivia, who attended St Margaret Mary's Catholic Junior School in Huyton, was shot in the chest at around 10pm on Monday as she was at home with her mum, Cheryl.
Reacting to the news, Cllr Frazer Lake, Labour member for Fazakerley and Assistant Mayor, said the whole city was shocked by Olivia’s senseless killing. He said: “It’s a terrible situation to be in.
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“We’re collectively heartbroken as a city, given the significance of the day and it being the anniversary of the death of Rhys Jones 15 years ago. It’s just a horrible situation.
“Olivia was one of our own, and one of our own has been taken from us.” Speaking at a press conference, Merseyside Police confirmed Olivia was the victim of the Dovecot shooting, which has been described as an "appalling act of evil."
Chief constable Serena Kennedy said a man being chased forced his way into Olivia's house and the offender ran in after him, firing a number of shots with complete disregard for Olivia and her family, who had no connection with the gunman or the man who forced his way in. The nine-year-old, who was described by her headteacher as having a “beautiful smile and a lovely sense of humour” was fatally wounded when the gunman fired at the man who was trying to get into the house.
Cllr Lake said schools would be on hand to offer support services to young people affected by the tragic killing and the full range of local authority services around mental health and wellbeing support was available for anyone in need at this time. The Fazakerley councillor also encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
He said: “I want to ask anyone with information to speak up. If they don’t feel comfortable contacting police or Crimestoppers, they can speak to their councillor or MP in complete confidence.
“That is because ultimately we want justice for Olivia and her family.” Cllr Lake said during a dark time for the city, it was vital people stick together.
He added: “We need to make sure we all look out for each other. As scousers, we’re known for standing together and that must continue now even more.”
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