Five children, including three 12-year-olds, have been arrested in the United Kingdom in connection with the death of an 80-year-old man following a “serious” assault in a park.
Leicestershire Police announced on Tuesday that they have launched a murder investigation after the elderly man succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on Sunday evening.
The suspects include five individuals: a boy and a girl, both aged 14, and three children aged 12—one boy and two girls—who have been arrested on suspicion of murder.
According to police, the assault occurred near the park entrance, and the group of young suspects fled the scene before emergency services arrived.
Authorities are appealing to anyone who was in the park or nearby at the time of the incident to come forward with any information.
Inspector Emma Matts, a Senior Investigating Officer, stated, “Tragically, following the victim’s death last night, this case has now escalated to a murder investigation. Officers are working swiftly to uncover the full details of the attack, and we have made several arrests as part of our ongoing efforts to understand what transpired.”
“A scene preservation will remain in place at the park while our investigation progresses. Local officers are also in the area carrying out re-assurance patrols and can speak with anyone in the local community who has concerns.”
Leicestershire Police had said in a statement that it would make a voluntary referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct because the force had prior contact with the victim.
