Wolverhampton murder: Teen boy charged after 14-year-old girl’s body found in park
A 16-YEAR-OLD boy has been charged with rape and murder after a 14-year-old girl’s body was found in a park in Wolverhampton.
A 14-year-old girl's body was found in West Park in Wolverhampton
Viktorija Sokolova's body was found just before 7am on Thursday in in Wolverhampton's West Park.
West Midlands Police confirmed the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.
Viktorija Sokolova’s family said she “was like a little angel” and “she made our lives so colourful and full of meaning”.
The family’s tribute added: “We can’t believe she last left us at such a young age. We will never forget you our sweetheart.
“You will be living in our heats, soul and mind forever. Goodbye our little angel.”
The 16-year-old was remanded into secure youth detention accommodation until a further hearing at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Tuesday.
Another boy, 17, was arrested on suspicion of murder but has been bailed pending further investigation.
West Park is still closed while a forensic examination continues.
West Park is still closed while the investigation continues
The girl was discovered a day after she was reported missing.
Superintendent Harvi Khatkar from West Midlands Police said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with Vicktorija's family and friends at this terrible time.
"We fully understand that people will be really concerned about what has happened, but we have a dedicated team of detectives working on the investigation.
"Extra patrols will be taking place in the area and I'd encourage anyone with concerns to speak to their local officers."
Police cordon off park in Wolverhampton after a body is found
Local residents expressed shock at the crime.
Kash Shenar, 52, said: “It’s horrific. It’s not common. I have been here 22 years. It’s fairly safe. The park is popular.”
Another neighbour, who did not wish to be named, added: "We go there every day. I have grown up here all my life round the park. It’s quite shocking something like this close by.
"I have never heard anything like this in 30-odd years I have been living here in Wolverhampton."