The statement, from North Huddersfield Trust School, said the news was “truly shocking for our pupils, your children and our staff”. Headteacher Andrew Fell said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of the student who must be absolutely devastated. “They have lost a loved one and we have lost a wonderful student from our school community.” Emergency services were called to the scene at Woodhouse Hill in Fartown at 2.54pm on Wednesday after the 15-year-old was attacked near the school’s entrance. The boy was treated at the scene and taken to Leeds General Infirmary for emergency surgery, but was pronounced dead a short time later. In a statement, West Yorkshire Police confirmed that an investigation into the killing is ongoing. Mr Fell said it was with “tremendous sadness” the school had to tell parents “one of our students has tragically lost his life”. “This is really shocking news for our students, your children and our staff,” he said. Mr Fell said special support was being provided to people, adding: “I would urge everyone not to engage in speculation about possible causes or perpetrators and to allow the police to carry out their inquiries.” The statement said the school would not open until 10.30am on Thursday and then only to pupils who needed support. A forensic examination and special investigations are underway at the school. Senior investigating officer, Detective Superintendent Marc Bowes, said: “Our investigation is still at a very early stage and we will be carrying out extensive inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident which has resulted in the completely senseless loss of a young woman of life. “We recognize that an incident of this nature will understandably cause shock and concern in the community and we are working closely with our colleagues in Kirklees who are increasing their presence in the area to reassure people and keep them informed as our investigation progresses. “We have already identified a number of witnesses to the incident itself, but we would like to hear from anyone who has any information that could assist the investigation.”
