News that a man has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of nine-year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbell has been met with 'relief' in the community that has been rocked by her killing.
Merseyside Police announced the arrest of a 36-year-old man this morning after an armed raid last night. The man, from Huyton, has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of nine-year-old Olivia, who was shot dead in her own home on Kingsheath Avenue on Monday night. The man has also been arrested on two counts of attempted murder.
All week, people have been encouraged to come forward with any information that could lead to the arrest of the person who shot Olivia dead and injured her mum when they burst into her home on Monday evening. Many have come to the nearby community centre The Drive, to pass on anonymous information, which has then been handed to police.
READ MORE: Man arrested on suspicion of murdering Olivia Pratt-Korbel
Centre manager Joanne Kennedy said: "I think there is just a massive feeling of relief in the community at that news this morning. I have had so many messages saying 'thank god' they have arrested someone." She added: "We are all just hoping that they have got the person who did this and that we will get justice for Olivia - we know there is still a long way to go."
Joanne and her colleagues have been offering a space this week for people who are scared to bring relevant information that can be passed on to police. They have previously said that 'credible' names have been passed to them.
She added: "We want to thank the community for trusting us and coming forward with information. We want that to continue, anything could be useful in helping to get justice>"
The Drive Centre will be continuing to support a community that has been left reeling by the tragic events of the past week. Today there is a drop-in session for anyone needing reassurance, while next week special events will be put on to help local children in the wake of the shooting.
Joanne said: "After the police and media have gone, we will still be here and we want to support the community. We will be there for anyone who needs it."
On the night of the murder, Olivia's mum opened the door to see what was happening on her street after hearing shots fired. Joseph Nee then forced his way into the home in an attempt to avoid the gunman. The gunman followed before opening fire into the home. A dark-coloured Audi then appeared at the scene and took Nee to hospital, leaving Olivia and her mum at the house.
A spokesperson for Merseyside police said: "We have arrested a 36 year-old man on suspicion of the murder of nine year-old Olivia Pratt-Korbel. The man, who is from the Huyton area, was also arrested on two counts of attempted murder.
"The arrest came after an operation involving armed officers in the Merseyside area last night, Thursday 25th August. The man is currently in custody where he is being questioned by detectives.
"An investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to DM @MerPolCC or contact @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111. Information, footage or images can also be submitted via the Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)."
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