Two churches in Birmingham have held prayer vigils in memory of 12-year-old Leo Ross, who tragically lost his life following a stabbing incident. The services, held at Christ Church in Yardley Wood and St Peter’s Church in Hall Green, brought together hundreds of mourners seeking comfort and unity in prayer.
The gatherings took place a day after police confirmed that a 14-year-old had been charged with Leo’s murder. Due to legal restrictions, the suspect’s identity has not been disclosed. Authorities stated that the teenager has been remanded in custody and is set to appear before Birmingham Magistrates’ Court.
In a social media post, St Peter’s Church emphasized that the vigils were organized to “unite with the whole community to surround Leo and his family and friends with our love and prayers.” Vicar Martin Stephenson reflected on the sorrow gripping the community, stating, “Our hearts, and our prayers, our love pours out for his family and friends.”
Leo was attacked in The Shire Country Park while walking home on Tuesday. He was found with a stab wound to the stomach and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. He was a student at Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy, where he was remembered as a “lovely and bright” pupil.
In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been launched by a relative of Leo’s foster carers to support The Daniel Baird Foundation, an anti-knife crime charity. Donations have already exceeded £10,000, as the community rallies to honor Leo’s memory and raise awareness about the dangers of knife violence.