Parents in tribute to tragic Casey (From Swindon Advertiser)

Parents in tribute to tragic Casey

10:24am Thursday 16th February 2012 in National News © Press Association 2011

The parents of a 13-year-old girl stabbed to death in a park have paid tribute to her as "the most beautiful, intelligent and bright young girl".

Casey-Lyanne Kearney was found lying fatally injured in Elmfield Park, Doncaster, on Tuesday afternoon after dialling 999 for help. She was taken to hospital but later died.

Her parents said in a statement: "Losing Casey has been so painful words cannot begin to explain. She was the most beautiful, intelligent and bright young girl with her whole life ahead of her. We need time alone with family and friends to start to come to terms with our loss."

Hannah Bonser, 26, will appear before Doncaster Magistrates' Court on Thursday charged with Casey-Lyanne's murder.

Bonser, of Cusworth House, Doncaster, is also accused of two counts of possession of a bladed article. Officers have described the incident as a "random, isolated attack" and appealed for people to come forward.

It emerged that Casey-Lyanne called police and a passer-by phoned for an ambulance, but despite their efforts she died in hospital hours later.

Detective Superintendent Terry Mann, of South Yorkshire Police, said officers were attempting to establish the teenager's movements after she left her home in Rossington at around midday on Tuesday.

He said Casey-Lyanne was intending to catch the bus to Doncaster town centre where she was going to meet a friend. He appealed for any members of the public who were in or near the park at lunchtime on Tuesday and either saw anything suspicious or Casey-Lyanne herself, to contact police.

Catherine Brown, head teacher at McAuley Catholic High School, issued a statement on behalf of the governing body, staff and pupils. It said: "The whole school community of McAuley Catholic High School is shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Casey Kearney, a pupil in year 9, in such tragic circumstances.

"Casey was a valued member of her form and year group and will be sadly missed by friends, pupils and staff. We are all thinking of her family and friends at this time."