Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a 16-year-old boy who was found with stab wounds in Manchester.

Emergency services were called to Thirlmere Avenue in Stretford, a town about four miles southwest of the city, at about 7pm on Saturday.

The boy was taken to hospital after being treated by paramedics at the scene, but later died of his injuries, Greater Manchester Police said.

Four teenagers – all boys aged between 15 and 17 – have been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the inquiry.

Superintendent John Harris said: “A family has been left devastated by this tragic news and our thoughts go out to them at this most shocking and upsetting time.

“Specially trained officers will be there to support the boys’ loved ones, and extra patrols will remain in the area of this fatal attack so that the local community can speak to us about any concerns or information they may have.”

Superintendent Harris said detectives were in the “early stages” of the investigation and would be “following up a number of different lines of inquiry we have to ensure those responsible are brought to justice”.

Clean Air Zone: Greater Manchester leaders urging government to pause parts of plan amid claims it ‘penalises people for working’

Manchester Arndale attack: Man who randomly assaulted five people in shopping centre with knife sentenced

Manchester: Shoppers recall ‘panic’ as man randomly stabbed 5 people in Arndale shopping centre

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101, quoting incident 2529 of 22/01/2022.

Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

Related posts:

‘Significant majority’ of COVID hospital cases are unvaccinated, says NHS chief England’s biggest COVID vaccine centre offers jab to anyone over 18 for today only ‘Cruel and indefensible’: Woman stuck in hotel quarantine while dying father in hospital Campaigners win legal battle over plans for road tunnel near Stonehenge Murder investigation launched after man found with head injury dies in hospital How is the UK testing for the Omicron COVID variant? Leaked footage shows moment British F35 jet crashes into Mediterranean during carrier take-off ‘It felt like a holiday’: Pub-goers freed after days trapped inside Britain’s highest inn Three more Omicron cases identified in Scotland – taking UK total to 14 Ambulance service asks patients to get lift to hospital due to pressure on staff Snow, ice and -8C temperatures to hit parts of UK – as weather warnings issued and power cuts possible Another 194,747 daily COVID cases and 334 deaths reported in UK