Three Charged with Murder over Death of 16-Year-Old Girl in Leeds
Three people have been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of 16-year-old Chloe Watson Dransfield in Leeds.
Chloe, from Gomersal, was found unconscious on Kennerleigh Avenue in the Austhorpe area shortly before 06:00 GMT on Saturday. She was taken to hospital but died a short time later.
Kayla Smith, 18, Archie Rycroft, 19, and a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Leeds Magistrates’ Court charged with her murder. Smith and Rycroft were remanded in custody, while the teenager was placed in secure accommodation ahead of a hearing at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday.
Rycroft denied separate charges of burglary and theft relating to incidents earlier in March, while the 17-year-old pleaded not guilty to a separate burglary charge dating back to August.
In a tribute, Chloe’s family described her as their «beautiful princess» and said her loss had left an immeasurable void. Her parents said she was «full of joy», with a «cheeky personality», and deeply loved by those around her.
Floral tributes have been laid at the scene, as the local community mourns her death.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed that one additional 18-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of murder, while two others previously arrested have been released on bail.
Chloe was a pupil at BBG Academy in Birkenshaw. The school said her death had deeply affected students and staff, describing her as a «funny, vibrant girl» who will be greatly missed.
Local MPs, including Kim Leadbeater and Richard Burgon, expressed their condolences and urged anyone with information to assist the police investigation.
