Chloe Watson Dransfield, a 16-year-old British girl from Gomersal in Kirklees, was fatally stabbed on Kennerleigh Avenue in Leeds’ Austhorpe neighborhood in the early hours of March 28, 2026. Officers found her unconscious with stab wounds; she was rushed to a hospital but pronounced dead. West Yorkshire Police are investigating and appealing for cell phone videos circulating on TikTok or Snapchat, believing they hold key evidence.
Charges and Arrests
- Charged with murder: Kayla Smith (18, of Kennerleigh Avenue), Archie Rycroft (19, of Middleton Park Road), and an unnamed 17-year-old boy.
- In custody: An 18-year-old man from Leeds arrested on suspicion of murder.
- On bail: Another 18-year-old man and 17-year-old girl, also arrested on suspicion.
Police haven’t detailed the events leading up to the stabbing but a GoFundMe suggests it may relate to a dispute “over a boy.” Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle urged the public not to share footage online to avoid prejudicing the case.
Family Tributes
Her mother called her “my beautiful princess,” saying, “You are my life, my world, my best friend.” Her father described her as “beautiful, full of joy and… wonderfully cheeky,” adding, “We will miss her forever.” The fundraiser notes she left two younger siblings behind.
For updates, follow West Yorkshire Police statements or BBC local news. This tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about youth violence in the UK.
