Police given more time to quiz boys over death of Brighton teenager

Detectives investigating the death of a Brighton teenager have been given more time to question two 14-year-old boys.

The pair are being held on suspicion of murdering Connor Saunders, 19, of Downsway in Woodingdean.

Magistrates have granted Sussex Police a further 36 hours to keep the two boys in custody.

They were originally arrested on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) along with a 13-year-old boy.

They were held after Connor was punched during a fight in West Street, Rottingdean, on Saturday night (14 April).

Connor suffered serious injuries as a result of being attacked and died yesterday (Sunday 15 April).

The three boys have since been arrested on suspicion of murder. The 13-year-old has been released on bail until Tuesday 8 May.

A post-mortem examination today (Monday 16 April) found that Connor died from injuries consistent with a blow to head.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick May, from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: “Exactly why this incident took place is still unclear.

“There has been some speculation that this may have been two gangs of youths confronting each other. We do not believe that this was the case.

“This appears to have been two groups of people who met each other while walking through Rottingdean and have exchanged words.

“We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen or heard the incident and has not yet contacted police.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Sussex Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.