Three teenagers accused of fatally stabbing a 16-year-old girl have made an appearance at a crown court. Kayla Smith, 18, Archie Rycroft, 19, and a 17-year-old boy faced charges for the murder of Chloe Watson Dransfield. Chloe was discovered with stab wounds in Kennerleigh Avenue in Leeds and sadly passed away in the hospital. Family and friends of Chloe attended the court session.
Smith, residing on Kennerleigh Avenue, Leeds, appeared from HMP New Hall, while Rycroft, from Middleton Park Road, Leeds, appeared from HMP Wetherby. The 17-year-old boy appeared from his remand location. The accused confirmed their identities and birthdates during the proceedings. No pleas were entered, and the defendants were remanded in custody until a further hearing scheduled for May 1. A trial date has been tentatively set for November 10.
Earlier, the trio appeared at Leeds Magistrates’ Court, where they were charged with Chloe’s murder. Smith and Rycroft were remanded in custody, while the 17-year-old was remanded into secure accommodation. District Judge Mark Daley informed them that the murder charges could only be tried at the crown court, with a hearing set for April 2. During the initial hearing, no pleas were entered regarding the murder charges.
West Yorkshire Police reported that an 18-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of murder, while an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl were released on bail in connection with the case. Chloe’s family released a heartfelt tribute, expressing their profound grief and love for her joyful and vibrant personality. They emphasized their everlasting love and memories of Chloe, underscoring the irreplaceable void left by her absence.
