Bristol stabbing victim named
There are 2 related updates to this story
Detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team are continuing to investigate the tragic death of a 16-year-old boy in Bristol on Wednesday (14 February).
While formal identification has yet to take place, we believe the victim to be Darrian Williams (pictured).
His family are being supported by specially-trained family liaison officers. Our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.
Darrian was attacked in Rawnsley Park in Easton by two people wearing masks who left the scene on bicycles before running to Stapleton Road where he was assisted by a motorist.
At 6pm we were then called by the ambulance service to the A420 in Old Market to a report of an injured boy. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he sadly died at the scene.
Yesterday evening, two boys, both aged 15, were arrested on suspicion of murder. They remain in police custody while enquiries are ongoing.
Senior Investigating Officer Det Insp Neil Meade said: “We are working non-stop to fully establish the circumstances around Darrian’s death and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.
“The loss of another young life is devastating and my thoughts are with Darrian’s family.
“I would like to thank everyone who has come forward with information so far and encourage anyone who has information but has yet to speak to us to do so as soon as possible.”
In response to this incident – and to other similar events in recent weeks – enhanced stop and search powers were introduced in parts of Bristol while a new police operation targeting youth violence has also been launched across our policing area.
Officers have also met with headteachers today to discuss ways in which police can provide support and reassurance ahead of pupils’ return from half-term and officers will be making extra patrols outside of schools next week.
A mobile police station will also be in the area over the coming days.
Help and support
Help is available for those, both adults and children, who feel they have been impacted by these events and is experiencing a reaction associated with trauma. Common signs of the impacts of trauma include:
- Feeling unable or not having anyone to talk to about what happened.
- Poor sleep due to intrusive thoughts or disturbing dreams impacting rest.
- Experiencing overwhelming emotions or feeling emotionally numb.
- Feeling as if your relationships are suffering since the incident.
In the first instance it’s important that if someone’s wellbeing or mental health is suffering, they call 111 or contact their GP.
Mental health support in Bristol can be accessed by contacting Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership:
- Adults can call the AWP 24/7 response line: 0800 953 1919
- Children under 18 can call the AWP CAMHS response line: 0800 953 9599
Information and advice related to mental health and the support available can also be found online:
- Off the Record (CAMHS) https://www.otrbristol.org.uk/
- Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/branches/bristol/
- Bristol MIND https://www.mind.org.uk/
If you witnessed the incident or have CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage which could help our investigation please do this through the Major Incident Public Portal: Public Portal (mipp.police.uk). Or you can call 101, quoting reference 5224039827, to provide this to a call handler.
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.
No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.