The tragic deaths of two younger siblings in Stoke-on-Trent have left their group in shock. 11-year-old Ethan John and his seven-year-old sister Elizabeth have been found unresponsive with severe accidents in a home on Flax Street. A woman, forty nine years old and known to the youngsters, has been arrested on suspicion of homicide.
The police initially responded to a stabbing incident involving a man in his 40s at a nearby automotive wash. After attending to the person, who has since been discharged from the hospital, officers discovered the children on the Flax Street residence. The suspect was first arrested in connection to the stabbing and later for the suspected homicide of the two children. She remains in custody for questioning.
Both Ethan and Elizabeth’s faculties issued heartfelt statements, remembering the kids fondly. Describing Ethan as having “impeccable manners and an infectious smile,” his school said that he would be tremendously missed by workers and college students alike. Elizabeth’s school remembered her as a “kind, caring and pleasant member of our school family” and a “ray of sunshine.” Save of Elizabeth is described as “truly devastating.”
Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Hannan emphasised the focus on uncovering what happened to the youngsters and offering help to those affected by the tragedy. She acknowledged the unimaginable pain and struggling skilled by the family and friends of the two younger victims. Specially-trained officers are aiding those closest to the children as the investigation continues.
Neighbours expressed their heartbreak upon hearing the news. One resident, Jade Halket, said, “It’s scary with it being so close, I even have two young kids myself, I discover it devastating. It’s terrible.” Another native resident told the BBC, “I can’t put it into phrases, I’m absolutely gutted. [The children] haven’t even seen a life yet. We began crying after we came upon, it’s simply not fair.”