News / Crime
16-year-old charged with murder
A teenager has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in St Andrew’s, who has been officially identified as Luka Bennett-Smith.
The 16-year-old – who cannot be named due to his age – appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday morning.
A post-mortem has revealed “a number of stab wounds” as the cause of death of 19-year-old Bennett-Smith.
Forensic vans and police officers were seen opposite the property on Tuesday morning
Bennett-Smith was pronounced dead after emergency services were called to a property on Cromwell Road shortly before 6.25pm on Sunday.
Talking about the tragic incident, Avon and Somerset Police chief inspector, Vicks-Hayward Melen, said: “Our thoughts are foremost with Luka’s family at this hugely difficult time.
“We are providing them with support through a specialist family liaison officer and they have been updated with the charging decision, which marks significant progress in this murder investigation.
“The family have understandably asked for privacy as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened over the past 48 hours and we’d ask people to please respect their wishes.
“We know tragic incidents like this one can cause significant concerns within any community, and therefore we encourage anyone who is worried to please make themselves known to officers in the area who are carry out additional patrols.
“They will be able to provide assistance and reassurance to anyone who has concerns.”
All photos: Karen Johnson
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