A TEENAGE girl found dead in a Blackpool alleyway has been named by murder squad detectives.
Sasha Marsden, 16, from Staining, was discovered at 9pm on Thursday night off Kirby Street, in South Shore.
A post mortem is due to take place on Friday evening. Police have now confirmed earlier reports attempts were made to set her on fire.
She lived with her parents and went to Blackpool and the Fylde College.
A 22-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman have both been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Senior Investigating Officer, Det Supt Andy Murphy from the Force Major Investigation Team said, “This is an incredibly difficult and complex enquiry and we are working to try and build up a picture of what happened last night.
“From examining the body, it appears to us that someone has attempted to set fire to Sasha and this is a line of enquiry that we are looking into.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for the family and we are keeping them informed of our investigation. Our officers will be supporting them as they attempt to come to terms with what has happened.”
Patrols in the area have been stepped up.
Operations Manager for Blackpool Police, Supt Eddie Newton said, “Incidents like this do send a sense a shock throughout our communities.
“I would ask people not to worry; we believe that this is an isolated incident and that there is no risk to the public. We have two people in custody helping with the investigation and detectives are following a number of different lines of enquiry.
“Our neighbourhood policing teams are out in the area and I would urge anyone who has any concerns to approach one of our officers and speak to them. They are there to offer you support and allay any fears that you may have.
“We have specially trained family liaison officers working closely with the family offering them support and our thoughts are with them at this sad time.”
Sasha was a former pupil at Bispham High School and Collegiate High School.
David Nicklin, assistant headteacher at Collegiate High School, said: “We are very sorry to hear about the sad loss of one of our former pupils. Our thoughts at this difficult time are with Sasha’s family and friends.”
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