A 16-year-old stabbed to death in a “targeted attack” posted a video on TikTok just hours before she was killed.

Brianna Ghey was found by members of the public as she lay wounded on a path in Linear Park, Culcheth, just after 3pm on Saturday.

The teenager had over 63,000 followers on TikTok and regularly posted on the social media platform.

She had a number of social media profiles and frequently posted videos miming pop songs whilst in school uniform.

A 15-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl, both from the local area, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

It is understood that Brianna was born a boy but had been living as a girl for a number of months.

Detective Chief Supt Mike Evans of Cheshire police described it as a “targeted attack” during a “busy day” at the park.

Police said that they do not believe the crime is related to the fact that Brianna is transgender and there is currently no evidence to suggest it is a hate crime.

Officers said that they were keeping an “open mind” as to the motive.

Head teacher at Birchwood Community High School, Emma Mills, where Brianna was a pupil, said: "We are shocked and truly devastated to hear of the death of Brianna.

"This is understandably a very difficult and distressing time for many and we will do our utmost to support our pupils and wider school community." 

The arrested teenagers are from the local area and are currently being held in custody.

Emergency services were called to Linear Park in Culcheth by members of the public at 3.13pm yesterday, Saturday 11 February 2023, after Brianna’s body was found on a path. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officers were continuing to trace the weapon and establish a motive for the attack, police said.

Additional officers are patrolling the area, which is a well-known dog walking spot.

Speaking on Sunday, Emma Fortune, who works in Valli Opticians in Birchwood, said Brianna and her mother had been customers of theirs since she started working there seven years ago.

“I last saw them last year,” she said. “Brianna looked gorgeous with her hair down and her make up. Her little face lit up when I told her how beautiful she looked.

"When I found out she’d been killed it was awful. I was so upset. Her mum will be devastated.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Mike Evans said: “A number of enquiries in relation to this incident are underway and we are doing all that we can to establish the exact circumstances of what has happened.

“At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that the circumstances surrounding Brianna’s death are hate related.

“Patrols have been stepped up in the local area and officers will remain in the Culcheth area to provide reassurance and address any concerns that residents may have.

“I would ask anyone who has any information, no matter how big or small, that they believe could help with our investigation to get in touch.

“We are also keen for people and businesses within the local community to check any CCTV or dashcam footage for anything that may aid our investigation.”