British police arrested two individuals for stabbing a 9-year-old girl to death in Lincolnshire on Thursday, at approximately 6:20 PM. BBC reports that Ch Supt Kate Anderson, from Lincolnshire Police, claims that the stabbing was an isolated incident, but that there are nevertheless 'multiple active lines of inquiry' and that police presence in the area - both for the investigation and on regular patrol - would be significantly increased.
The police force declined to comment either on the identity of the victim or details of those arrested but assured the public that the family was being supported by specially trained officers at this difficult time.
Paul Skinner, leader of Boston Borough Council, said the town was "united in mourning", and that the flag at the town offices had been brought to half-mast as a sign of respect. "We can't for one second imagine the pain the family and the young girl's friends are going through, and our heartfelt condolences go out to them."
Matt Warman, the Conservative MP for Boston and Skegness, said the incident had sent "shockwaves through the community". "I think anyone who has heard of these sorts of events, you often never think it could happen somewhere you are familiar with yourself," he told BBC Radio Lincolnshire. He likewise passed for national assistance in the investigation and urged members of the public with any relevant information to come forward.
Reverend Jane Robertson, from nearby St. Botolph's Church, known as Boston Stump, said she was "devastated" by the news.
"It really affects everyone in the community," she said. "One of the things we are thinking about is how every single life is precious, but the loss of a child is so difficult for anyone to comprehend." The public has been invited to light candles at the church in the victim's memory.