The first picture of nine-year-old Lilia Valutyte - who was stabbed to death in front of her younger sister - has been released, as police launch a murder investigation.
The child was reportedly playing in the street with a toy pram near the town centre of Boston, Lincs, with her younger sister when the attack took place.
Police arrested two men in connection with the little girl’s death on Thursday night, The Telegraph reported. The title also released a picture of the youngster, dressed up and smiling while clutching an eighth birthday helium balloon, as reported by the Daily Star.
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They quoted a woman who described the youngster's final moments, as one man is said to have 'run away' from the scene. The unnamed neighbour reportedly said: "The little girl was playing in the street with her younger sister when it happened. They had some toys out."
Her pram was left lying on the road as paramedics battled to save her life inside an ambulance, according to a witness.
Earlier today, a Lincolnshire Police spokesperson said: "We can now confirm the identity of the nine-year-old girl who sadly died in Boston yesterday as Lilia Valutyte. She died on Fountain Lane, as a result of what we believe to be a stab wound."
Pictures from the scene confirmed earlier reports that the incident appeared to have happened out in the street, and not within a property on Fountain Lane. The nine-year-old died at the scene as a result of her injuries.
The girl's parents were yesterday informed of the incident, and are being supported by specialist officers.
The Conservative MP for Boston and Skegness, Matt Warman, said he had been in contact with the policing minister to ensure national assistance is available to the murder investigation.
“Profoundly shocking news in Boston this evening,” Mr Warman he said. "I have spoken to senior officers locally and am hugely grateful for all the emergency services’ work.
“I have also been in contact with policing minister Tom Pursglove to ensure that any national help that might be useful is made available as quickly as possible.”
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