Police release CCTV image of van in search for witnesses to Ava White killing
DETECTIVES last night appealed to a van driver who they believe is a key witness in the alleged murder of a 12-yearold girl in Liverpool, as four teenagers were questioned over her death.
Ava White was out with friends in the city centre on Thursday after the Christmas lights switch-on when she was stabbed shortly after 8.30pm.
The paramedics fought to save the her but she died a short time later at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.
Four boys, one aged 13, two aged 14 and one 15-year-old, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are still being questioned at police stations around Liverpool.
Police have now released a CCTV image of a grey Enterprise van whose occupants officers believe could have “vital” information. Det Supt Sue Coombs said: “We are also sharing a still image of a van which was in the vicinity of the incident.
“Those vehicle’s occupants are witnesses, and in no way suspected of being involved. However, we still need to speak to those people.” Police said that a verbal argument had broken out between children and it had rapidly escalated into violence, with unconfirmed reports that Ava had been stabbed in the neck.
Det Coombs said Ava’s family was being supported by specialist officers and added: “Merseyside Police is absolutely determined to bring those responsible to justice.”
On Friday, Notre-Dame Catholic College in Liverpool paid tribute to Ava, their former pupil, as a “much loved, valued and unique member” of the school’s family.
Members of the public are urged to contact Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook quoting reference 21000820789, call 101 or reach the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.