Arrests Follow Teenager's Stab Murder

Six people have been arrested following the discovery of an 18-year-old woman who was found murdered in a Lancashire park.

Louise Stephanie Evans, who was living in a hostel, suffered knife injuries and head wounds during the attack in Towneley Park, Burnley.

Paramedics tried to save the girl, but she died at the scene.

On Wednesday police were granted a 36-hour extension to quiz two men aged 18 and 20, who were arrested on suspicion of murder.

Three others aged 17,20 and 22, as well as a 19-year-old woman, were arrested but released without charge.

A Lancashire Police spokeswoman said: "A post mortem has revealed that the victim died as a result of multiple injuries."

Police also said the victim and the suspects knew each other. They are investigating whether the group had been drinking or taking drugs throughout the night.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Gray of the police force described the death as an "horrific attack" and appealed for anyone with information to contact them.

He said: "Despite the fact that this incident took place when it would have been dark in a fairly secluded spot, people may still have information which could help us piece together exactly what happened.

"I would like to reassure the local community that this was an isolated incident and that people who ordinarily use this park should not be unduly worried."

(JM/BMcC)