Teens in court accused of murder after stabbing

News imageKate Bradbrook/BBC A police officer with their back to the camera stands between two bollards at the top of a path. There is police tape running along the path. There is a police car behind the police officer. On the left, there is a tree and a white-and-blue building.Kate Bradbrook/BBC
Police were called to Kingsway Recreation Ground in Luton on Friday

Three teenage boys have appeared in court charged with murder after a fatal stabbing in Luton.

Bedfordshire Police were called to reports of violent disorder at Kingsway Recreation Ground at about 18:30 BST on Friday, where a 17-year-old boy was found with stab wounds. He later died in hospital.

A 16-year-old and two 17-year-olds, who cannot be named because of their age, appeared at Luton Magistrates' Court charged with murder, violent disorder and possession of a bladed article.

They were remanded in custody pending a further court appearance.

Another 17-year-old boy arrested over the weekend has been released on bail pending further inquiries, while a further 17-year-old who was arrested on Friday, and who was being treated in hospital for serious injuries, remains in police custody.

Det Ch Insp Nick Gardener said: "We understand this was a shocking incident for the local community and we would like to reassure them that we have had detectives working tirelessly on this case throughout the weekend.

"High visibility patrols and an increased police presence in the area will continue."

News imageKate Bradbrook/BBC Blue-and-white police tape stretches across a pathway in the foreground, blocking access to an open area of Kingsway Recreation Ground. Several benches and lamp posts are visible beyond the cordon, with a police vehicle parked in the distance. A large building stands to the left and trees line the background beneath a cloudy sky.Kate Bradbrook/BBC
The area remained behind a police cordon over the weekend

Police said the teenager who died has yet to be formally identified. Specially trained officers are supporting his family.

Gardener added: "Our thoughts remain with the victim's family at this time."

Do you have a story suggestion for Beds, Herts or Bucks? Contact us below.

Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.