Eddie MitchellA murder investigation has been launched following the death of a 15-year-old boy in Guildford.
Surrey Police was called to woodland off Lido Road in Stoke Park at 18:10 GMT on Monday following reports of a stabbing.
South East Coast Ambulance Service also attended but the victim, who has yet to be named, died at the scene, police have said.
His family have been informed and no arrests have so far been made.
Senior investigating officer Det Supt Andy Jenkins said: “First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim at this desperately sad time.
“I know there will be a lot of concern and speculation in the local community following the events of last night.”
Eddie MitchellHe added: “But I would like to reassure them that our officers are working around the clock to establish the circumstances of this tragic incident, gather as much evidence as possible and identify and bring to justice those responsible.
“Our investigation is still in its early stages and we are urgently looking to speak to anyone with any information that may assist our enquiries.”
Speaking to the , resident Rosie Spence said she could not believe “something like this could happen on our doorstep”.
“I just feel like I don’t want to walk anywhere anymore,” she added.
Fellow local Leslie Myles said: “I’ve lived here a very long time and we’ve never had anything like this.
“It’s horrendous and very frightening.”
Guildford MP Zoe Franklin said she was “devastated that someone so young has lost their life”.
Meanwhile, Martin Cosser, founder of the Milford-based anti-knife crime campaign Charlie’s Promise, said: “I’m so sorry to hear this and send my love to the victim’s family and friends.”
St John’s Church, in Church Road, said it would open its doors as a place to “light a candle for peace” from 14:30 until 16:30, and from 19:30 until 21:00.
A significant police presence will remain in place for some time, and the area known as Peacock Wood, along with Wild Wood Adventure centre and the nearby car park, is currently cordoned off, police said.
However, access will still be available to both the indoor and outdoor bowls clubs, Guilden Village student accommodation and Stoke Park.
The A25 (Parkway) will also be unaffected, the force added.
