A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died in Bath city centre.
Emergency services were called to the Southgate Street area of the city at about 3.30am on Saturday. The victim, Ben Moncrieff, 18, was found critically injured and died at the scene.
Three people were arrested on the same day, said Avon and Somerset police. Two of the suspects were later released without charge. The teenager remains in custody after police were granted more time to question him.
Pictures from the scene later on Saturday show police tape cordoning off an area outside McDonald’s and other shops. Floral tributes have been left in Bath city centre and a GoFundMe has been launched to raise funds for the victim’s funeral.
Writing on the fundraising page, Alfie Rosser said: “Sadly, a dear friend to many was taken from us on Saturday morning in the centre of Bath. Ben was a hard-working lad who had his life taken for no reason.
“The pain we’re all experiencing is something words can’t describe, but I hope you’re happy up there seeing us all cherish the many memories we all made with you. Ben was not only one of the most loving people I had the pleasure to meet, he was also the funniest.
“He brought endless smiles to everyone who was lucky enough to meet him and will never be forgotten.”
Formal identification has not yet taken place, but the force believes the victim is Moncrieff. Specialist officers are supporting his family, police added.
Ch Insp Ronnie Lungu, of the Bath neighbourhood team, said: “Our thoughts remain with Ben’s family at this difficult time. Specially trained officers are providing them with support and continuing to update them as the investigation progresses.
“We’d ask his family’s privacy is respected as they try to come to terms with the events of the past couple of days.”
Lungu added: “Our major crime investigation team is continuing to progress its inquiries into what happened, reviewing a significant amount of CCTV footage and taking statements from witnesses. An extension has been granted this afternoon to allow us to continue to question the individual we have in custody.
“We’re grateful for the public’s patience and understanding while inquiries were carried out at the scene and these were concluded yesterday.
“Extra reassurance patrols are taking place and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with those officers who will be happy to stop and help.”
PA Media contributed to this report
