Two teenagers charged with the murder of 16-year-old Brianna Ghey have been remanded into custody.
A 15-year-old girl from Warrington and a 15-year-old boy from Leigh were arrested after the transgender teen’s death.
The pair appeared at Chester Magistrates’ Court, sitting as a youth court, this morning, and were not required to enter pleas to the charge.
Prosecutor Leanne Gallagher told the court Brianna’s death was “extremely brutal and punishing”.
The two suspects spoke only to confirm their names and addresses during the short hearing.
Both were supported by their parents in court, with the girl’s mother and father appearing emotional as she was brought into court.
The pair were remanded into youth detention by District Judge Jack McGarva to appear at Liverpool Crown Court tomorrow.
Brianna was found with serious injuries on a pathway by members of the public in Linear Park in Culcheth, Cheshire, on Saturday afternoon.
Emergency services were called but Brianna, from Birchwood in Warrington, died at the scene.
On Tuesday evening people gathered for candlelit vigils at St George’s Hall in Liverpool and at College Green in Bristol.
More vigils are due to be held across the country in the coming days.
Brianna was ‘one of a kind’
The charges come after Brianna’s family paid tribute, describing her as a “larger-than-life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her”.
In a statement, the family said: “Brianna was beautiful, witty, and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless, and one of a kind.
“The loss of her young life has left a massive hole in our family, and we know that the teachers and her friends who were involved in her life will feel the same.
“We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.”
Emma Mills, headteacher at Brianna’s school Birchwood Community High School, said: “We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of the death of Brianna.
“This is understandably a very difficult and distressing time for many, and we will do our utmost to support our pupils and wider school community.”
