The Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, Philip Wilkinson, has expressed deep condolences following the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old boy in Chippenham on Saturday afternoon. The tragic incident occurred just before 4pm on January 31, when Wiltshire Police were called to London Road after reports of a stabbing.
The victim was found with multiple stab wounds and tragically died later in hospital. A 15-year-old boy was swiftly arrested at the scene and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Commissioner Wilkinson urged the community to refrain from speculation to allow the police to conduct a thorough investigation. “My utmost thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the young boy whose life was so brutally cut short,” he said. “This loss will be deeply felt across our close-knit community.”
READ MORE: Mum Finds £8.50 Hermes Top in Saltford Charity Shop and Discovers Its True Value
READ MORE: ‘I’ve Been Friends with Katie Price for 20 Years and Here’s the Truth Behind Her Latest Marriage’
To reassure residents, the Commissioner confirmed an increased police presence in the area, including a mobile police station, throughout the week. He appealed to anyone with information to come forward by contacting the police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
In response to the incident, efforts to address knife crime are being intensified. Mr Wilkinson highlighted ongoing collaboration with local authorities to implement education and engagement initiatives aimed at preventing future tragedies. “It is vital we address the root causes of knife crime and support our young people to make better choices,” he added.
These initiatives work alongside neighbourhood policing teams to educate youth about the dangers of knife-carrying. The Commissioner also encouraged parents and carers to share any concerns they might have and directed them to support resources available on his website.
Wilkinson stressed the importance of community cooperation, “Young people need to feel safe, and we must collectively reinforce that carrying knives will never solve their problems. Together, we can prevent more senseless tragedies like this one.”
Wiltshire Police confirmed that the victim’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specially trained officers at this difficult time.