Boy, 14, arrested on suspicion of harassment after death of Manchester schoolgirl

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of harassment following the death of a schoolgirl.

Madison Richardson, 13, died in hospital after emergency services were called to reports of a "concern for welfare" at an address in Manchester, a police spokesman said.

Greater Manchester Police said the investigation into Madison’s death on Nov 24 remained ongoing, and that the boy has been released on bail.

Madison’s family said she "lit up every room she was in".

In a statement, they said: “We are heartbroken and devastated by the sudden loss of our daughter, Maddie.

“Maddie was a bubbly, loving character – she made everything into a joke and she lit up every room that she was in.

“Maddie had a laugh that everyone will remember her for. Maddie filled every room with her presence, she was fun to be around and always made us laugh.”

They added: “Maddie truly was one of a kind, she had a heart of gold and was fiercely protective of those she loved, especially her siblings, who will miss her deeply.

“There is a void in our lives and we will miss Maddie sorely. We would like to mention the charity YoungMinds, who are a mental health charity for children and young people.”

Schoolgirl was ‘kind and gentle’

James Docherty, the headteacher of Teenage Kicks, a school in Failsworth, also paid tribute to the teenager, who he said had a remarkable talent for art.

“Maddie didn’t just make beautiful art – she made people feel special.

“Even when she was having a rant, you knew deep down she didn’t mean it, and she was soon back at the office door asking for something.

“There was a gentleness in her, a kindness that flowed naturally, and it touched pupils and staff alike.

“Maddie will forever be part of our school family, and she will be carried in our memories with love, pride, and endless appreciation for the light she brought into our lives,” Mr Docherty said.

Det Insp Andrew Day, of GMP’s Oldham district, said: “Madison’s death is utterly heartbreaking for her friends and family, and I know that they are continuing to grieve as they face their first Christmas without her. Our thoughts remain with all of them at this time.

“An arrest has been made in relation to allegations of harassment in the days leading up to her death, and while that boy has since been bailed, inquiries are very much ongoing.

“We are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of Madison’s death, which includes if the actions of anyone else contributed to it, and ultimately, to try and get much-needed answers for her family.”

Police have appealed for anyone with information about the case to contact them.