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Two teenagers have been arrested over the murder of a 13-year-old boy stabbed to death in his own home.
West Midlands Police said the pair were detained on Sunday in connection with the fatal stabbing in Lovett Avenue in the market town of Oldbury on Thursday.
The teenagers are being questioned by murder detectives after promising concerned locals they will “find out who is responsible” for the killing.
“The family of the 13-year-old boy who died are aware of the developments in our investigation. Our thoughts remain with them at this devastating time,” the force said.
Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, the commander of the Sandwell Local Policing Area, said “This is a truly sad and tragic incident where a young boy has lost his life.
“First and foremost my thoughts and the thoughts of all involved investigating the death of this young boy remains firmly with the family and loved ones.
“I know this will also have had a huge impact on the wider community who will be shocked and concerned about what has happened.
“I am grateful to our officers who attended the address and supported the paramedics as they worked in vain to try to save his young life.
“I’m here to let the family and wider community know that we will work with you and support you as we seek to find out who is responsible for the death of this young boy.
“We have a team of detectives investigating exactly what happened and we’re following active lines of enquiry to find the suspects.
“What we know is that the incident took place inside his home and I would appeal to anyone who has any information to come forward.”
West Midlands Crimestoppers chair, Mohammed Zafran said knife crime was an increasing problem with the area having the highest rate of knife offences in England and Wales
“We need parents to lay the foundations and more community leaders to come out in the open and put it to the authorities to ensure we have more youth hubs which can stop these youths from loitering on the streets,” he said.
