Girl, 12, allegedly killed by teen boys: 'Catastrophic injuries'

A 12-year-old girl has died after suffering “catastrophic injuries” in a stabbing attack in the UK.

Ava White was in Liverpool city centre with friends on Thursday night (local time) when police believe a verbal argument broke out, leading to her being stabbed.

A 13-year-old boy, two 14-year-old boys and a 15-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Police were called just before 8.40pm and found Ava lying on the ground off Church Street, where a member of the public was attempting to administer first aid.

Paramedics took the girl to Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, but tragically she died a short time later.

"We believe that Ava and her friends had been involved in a verbal argument which culminated in Ava being assaulted causing catastrophic injuries," Assistant Chief Constable Jon Roy said.

The city was busy at the time of the attack, as the city’s Christmas tree lights were officially turned on.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Ava’s family, who are being supported by specialist Family Liaison officers.

“Their world has been torn apart and no parent should ever have to face that knock on the door from police officers to say that their child has died,” Constable Roy said.

He called for anyone who witnessed the attack or captured it on their mobile phones to come forward to police.

Ava killed on White Ribbon Day

Tragically, Ava died on White Ribbon Day in the UK, a a global campaign created to end violence against women. In Australia, White Ribbon Day was on November 19.

“Ava’s death should be a reminder to us all about the part that we each have to play in eliminating violence against women and girls,” Constable Roy said.

Additional police officers will be present in the city in the lead up to Christmas to provide reassurance to the public.

The news of Ava’s death sent shockwaves through the nation.

Within one hour of police confirming her death on Facebook, almost 1000 messages of condolences were left on the post.

“Rest in peace little angel,” one person wrote.

“Absolutely heartbreaking, 12 years old and gone just like that,” another said.

“This makes me feel sick, I've got a 14 year old that goes shopping to town with her friends. Are they not safe anywhere?” another wrote, mirroring the sentiments of many parents in the community.

The four boys remain in custody for questioning.

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