Two boys aged 16 and 17 held on suspicion of murder after death of Vicktorija Sokolova

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

A 14-year-old girl found dead in Wolverhampton has been named by police as Vicktorija Sokolova.

Two boys aged 16 and 17 have been arrested by detectives investigating her death. Vicktorija’s body was discovered by a member of the public in West Park at about 7am on Thursday. She had been reported missing the day before.

West Midlands police said the boys were arrested on suspicion of murdering the Lithuanian-born girl, who died from blunt force trauma to her head.

Supt Harvi Khatkar 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.”

Vicktorija’s family are being supported by specialist officers.

DCI Edward Foster, from West Midland police’s homicide unit, said: “My team are working around the clock to understand what happened to this girl and our inquiries to date have led to today’s arrests.

“A number of people have come forward with information, but I would still like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious or saw a young girl in the park overnight from Wednesday onwards.”

The death has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is normal procedure as the girl had been reported missing.

Anyone with information should call the homicide team on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.