A 14-year-old girl stabbed to death at home has been named and pictured for the first time as her parents are charged with her murder.
Scarlett Vickers died from a single stab wound, police said. Her parents Simon Vickers, 48, and Sarah Hall, 44, of Geneva Road, Darlington, made a short appearance at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Monday. Court papers showed they are both accused of murdering their child on Friday.
The duo was remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday July 10, a court official said. After the charges were announced, senior investigating officer detective superintendent Craig Rudd said: “This incident has resulted in the tragic death of a young girl, and our thoughts are with her family and friends.
“I would like to thank the local community for their patience and co-operation while investigative work is still being carried out at the scene, and to reassure residents that we believe this to be an isolated incident.”
Jack James, deputy member of Darlington Youth Parliament, said: "Saddened to hear about the death of Scarlett Vickers. From what I have seen from many young people in the town I can tell that she was a wonderful girl who was looked up to very much by her friends. I send my deepest wishes to all affected by the death of Scarlett."