Transgender girl killed in Warrington
A moving vigil for murdered teenager Brianna Ghey saw a sombre crowd of some 300 people gathered on Saturday in the centre of Exeter.
The 16-year-old transgender girl died a week ago [Saturday11 February], following an attack at Linear Park in Warrington.
Candles, flags, flowers and messages of support were laid at a memorial on Cathedral Green for the campaigning teen.
Organised by a number of LGBT+ groups from the Exeter area, the event saw dozens of speakers open up about the impact of Rihanna‘s death.
“We are devastated and horrified, but not surprised that it happened,“ said one speaker.
Another called on people to support trans, children and adults.
“We deserve to be able to grow up in safety. Trans lives deserve to have joy,“ said another.
There were tears, but others speaking outside the imposing West Front of Exeter Cathedral spoke of the sense of solidarity and community that the vigil represented for them.
“It is important for us to know that Exeter showed up today,” said the speaker.
Following the vigil, people gathered at Exeter Phoenix to continue marking the teenager’s death.
Two 15-year-olds appeared in court last week charged with the murder of Rihanna and were remanded in custody.
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