Olly Stephens: Three teenagers charged with murder after 13-year-old boy stabbed

‘An Olly-sized hole has been left in our hearts,’ says family

Undated handout photo issued by Thames Valley Police of 16-year-old Olly Stephens who died after being stabbed at Bugs Bottom fields, Emmer Green, in Reading on Sunday (PA)

A 13-year-old girl, a 13-year-old boy and a 14-year-old boy have been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm in connection with the death of Oliver Lucas Stephens in Reading.

Thames Valley Police said the trio of teenagers, all from Reading, have been remanded in custody to appear in Reading Magistrates’ Court on Thursday. The girl has also been charged with perverting the course of justice.

Two other 13-year-old boys have been released on bail with strict conditions until 1 February.

Oliver, known as Olly, was autistic and died at the scene of the attack from fatal stab wounds at Bugs Bottom fields, Emmer Green, on Sunday.

His family issued a statement through police, describing him as “an enigma” who “could get his own way with a wry smile and a cheeky grin”.

“He always stood his ground and fought for the underdog whilst having an amazing depth of love, warmth and wit,” they said.

“In his final moments he must have been terrified. Fighting to get home, he had everything to live for. We now have only memories.

“An Olly-sized hole has been left in our hearts.”

The family described the ordeal as “every parents’ worst nightmare”, but thanked those who helped at the scene, including “a Good Samaritan that tried valiantly to save Oliver”, an off-duty doctor who offered help, and the emergency services.

Parents of “devastated” children who attended Highdown School with Olly llaid flowers in tribute outside the school and described the killing as “utterly senseless”.

Detective superintendent Kevin Brown, who is the senior investigating officer, appealed to anyone who might have information about the incident to contact police.

He said: “This continues to be a very difficult time for the family of Olly. Our thoughts remain with them. The Stephens family appreciate all of the kindness shown to them but they have asked that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time.

“Anyone with any information is asked to get in touch and report it, and to refrain from posting this information on social media.”