A single stab wound to her chest resulted in the tragic death of teenager Chloe Watson Dransfield, as revealed in an inquest.
The 16-year-old, who had been at a party in the Austhorpe region of east Leeds, was discovered unresponsive at 5.55 am on Saturday, March 28. Three teenagers have been accused of her murder.
At Wakefield Coroner’s Court, an inquiry into Chloe’s demise began this morning, where a preliminary post-mortem examination indicated the cause of death as a chest stabbing.
Due to the ongoing legal proceedings involving the three teenagers charged with her murder, the case was adjourned with no set date for completion. Area coroner Oliver Longstaff acknowledged the delay in reaching a conclusion given the “violent” and “tragic” nature of Chloe’s passing.
Hailing from Gomersal, Chloe passed away in a hospital after being found unconscious on Kennerleigh Avenue in the early hours of March 28.
In connection to her murder, Kayla Smith, 18, Archie Rycroft, 19, and a 17-year-old boy, unnamed due to age restrictions, appeared in Leeds Crown Court briefly on murder charges. Additionally, a 14-year-old boy was interrogated and subsequently released on police bail pending further investigation.
The alleged perpetrators of Chloe’s death are scheduled to appear for a plea and trial hearing at Leeds Crown Court on May 1. A tentative trial date, anticipated to span over two weeks, has been set for November 10, subject to change.
In a heartfelt statement, Chloe’s mother expressed her deep sorrow, describing Chloe as her cherished daughter and expressing the irreplaceable void left by her absence.
The family’s tribute continued, emphasizing the everlasting love and memories shared with Chloe by her siblings and parents, all devastated by the loss.
Chloe’s father and relatives also honored her memory, highlighting her beauty, joyous spirit, and promising future, underscoring the profound impact of her absence on those who knew and loved her.
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