Wellingborough community in shock after 16-year-old stabbed to death - 'I fear for my grandson'

A murder investigation has been launched
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Members of the Wellingborough community where a 16-year-old boy died from a fatal stabbing have spoken of their sadness at his tragic death.

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of the boy, named locally as Dylan Holliday.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Police officers had been called at about 5.45pm yesterday evening (Thursday, May 25) to Brooke Close to reports that a boy had been stabbed. Sadly, and despite the best efforts of paramedics, he died shortly afterwards.

Police had sealed off the area near the Shelley Road underpassPolice had sealed off the area near the Shelley Road underpass
Police had sealed off the area near the Shelley Road underpass

Wellingborough resident Shashi Patel often walks through the parkland where the tragic incident took place.

The 63-year-old said: "It's terrible - disgusting. No parent should have to bury their child. He didn't deserve this.

"There should be more for young people to do. As the town is expanding there should be more provision for them, like youth clubs."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

One younger resident spoke of his fear of going out at night after being attacked one Halloween.

The Shelley Road underpassThe Shelley Road underpass
The Shelley Road underpass

He said: "I used to go out but I got jumped - they kicked my head a few times and stamped on me. Around here people carry knives.

"I hope that Dylan gets his justice."

His grandmother - a resident of more than 40 years - added: "All day long you hear police. I fear for my grandson. It's awful."

Their neighbour who moved to the area three years ago said: "It's sad and tragic - it's a never ending circle."

Floral tributes have been left at the sceneFloral tributes have been left at the scene
Floral tributes have been left at the scene
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Owner of the Shelley Park Premier Stores in Brooke Close, Math Hillarion, said: "It's very sad. I'm not really scared but I am aware of what's going on."

One passer-by, who did not want to be named, said: "It's a war between young kids with knives, it's sad. I have lived here for 13 years and it's getting worse. It's not the first time [an incident] has happened."

Heather Saunders chair of the trustees of nearby Glamis Hall said: “We were very saddened to hear of the tragic death of a local teenager and serious injury to another across the park from Glamis Hall and we send our sincere condolences to their friends and family.

"We discussed the escalation of violence on the Queensway at our Partnership meeting with local Councillors on Tuesday and hope to see a clear plan of action from the authorities soon.”

Police cordoned off the area after the incident last nightPolice cordoned off the area after the incident last night
Police cordoned off the area after the incident last night
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

An 18-year-old man and two 16-year-old boys were arrested last night on suspicion of murder in connection with the boy’s death and all three remain in police custody.

A 15-year-old who was also stabbed during the incident was taken to hospital but his injuries are not thought to be life threatening or life changing.

Senior investigating ffficer, Detective Chief Inspector Joe Banfield, said: “This investigation is moving at a fast pace and I am absolutely determined to bring those that did this to justice.

“For a 16-year-old boy to lose his life in any circumstances is tragic but to have it taken away in this manner is unbelievably sad. Specialist officers are supporting his family at this time and they have asked for privacy while they attempt to come to term with what has happened.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Three arrests were quickly made last night but I would still appeal for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward and speak to us.

“Whilst we do believe that this was an isolated incident, high-visibility police patrols will be taking place in Wellingborough today to reassure the local community and I would encourage anyone with concerns in the area to approach one of our officers who will be happy to help.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Northamptonshire Police on 101. Alternatively, if you would like to pass us your information anonymously, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Incident number: 21000440001

Related topics: