Murdered 12-year-old girl was stabbed and strangled

A 12-YEAR-OLD girl found murdered was strangled with a ligature and stabbed in the stomach, police said last night.

A post-mortem examination has revealed that Tia Rigg died from strangulation and multiple stab injuries to her abdomen.

The girl was found dead at Dalmain Close, Cheetham Hill in Manchester, after a 999 call at about 3.45pm on Saturday.

A 37-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder. Police have not commented on reports that the suspect is her uncle.

He is still in custody being questioned by detectives. No-one else is being sought in relation to the murder inquiry, say police.

Detective Superintendent Mary Doyle, who is leading the murder investigation, said:

"Tia suffered significant injuries. There is evidence of some stab injuries and strangulation.

"Tia was a happy, normal, healthy 12-year-old girl. She had friends and socialised normally. She was in the flush of youth. It's just an absolute tragedy.

"All murders are terrible, but when it's an 12-year-old girl it's just horrendous," the officer added.

Tia's parents are understood to be separated and she had three younger siblings.

Young friends of the girl paid tribute to her on her Facebook page.

One read: "Tia you are in gods care now, sleeping with the angels. You have joined the welcoming family of angels, god bless you little one, night night xx."