Pupils Demand Peace One Year After Olivia Pratt-Korbel's Tragic Passing

author: FutureCar Staff    

Pupils from Olivia Pratt-Korbel's school have come together to advocate for peace on the first anniversary of her death. In a heartfelt video, children and members of the community, including Olivia's mother Cheryl Korbel, recite a poem that emphasizes the strength of community spirit in the wake of Olivia's tragic murder last August.

The video features students from St Margaret Mary's school in Huyton, Merseyside, as well as Malvern and Park Brow primary schools. Their message is clear: "We could be family with no enemies. We'll never know if we don't try it."

The poem, written by Liverpool-born Curtis Watts, was developed in collaboration with the schools and local community. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity.

Cheryl Korbel, who was also injured during the attack that took Olivia's life, concludes the video by stating, "Make sure we never deny it." Her words carry the weight of a mother who has experienced unimaginable loss.

In response to Olivia's murder, Merseyside Police and partners launched an initiative called Evolve Liverpool and Knowsley, designed by the Home Office to disrupt and deter organized crime groups. Since its inception, the initiative has yielded impressive results. Between January and July of this year alone, it has led to 379 arrests, three firearm seizures, 44 premises searches, and the seizure of over 4kg of suspected class A and B drugs. Additionally, 39 safeguarding referrals have been made.

Chief Superintendent Zoe Thornton, head of local policing and overseer of the Evolve work carried out by Merseyside Police, expressed the impact of Olivia's murder, stating, "A year ago today we were left shattered by the callous murder of Olivia. Her death marked the fourth death that month at the hands of reckless criminals who were willing to wield a gun."

Thornton emphasizes the importance of community strength in combating crime, saying, "The strength of Merseyside lies in its communities, and by harnessing that strength we can break the cycle of crime and make our neighborhoods safer for generations to come."

Liverpool City Council leader, councillor Liam Robinson, reflects on Olivia's tragic death and urges individuals to take action against wrongdoing. He states, "The senseless murder of Olivia made us question the kind of world we are living in, where our children are not safe in their own homes. If you want to show your respect for Olivia and her family on the first anniversary of her death, then speak up when you witness wrongdoing. Turning a blind eye only benefits those who seek to cause harm and undermines our sense of unity."

FutureCar Staff