Police arrest seven after Reservoir death

Police have arrested seven people as part of the Homicide Squad investigation into an incident in Reservoir last weekend where a teen was fatally assaulted.

Detectives from the Homicide Squad, alongside other units from Crime Command and police from North West Metro region, executed warrants early this morning.

The following people have been arrested in relation to the death:

• A 17-year-old Taylors Hill boy;

• A 17-year-old Tarneit boy;

• A 15-year-old Hoppers Crossing boy;

• A 16-year-old Yarraville boy;

• A 13-year-old Meadow Heights boy;

• A 14-year-old Meadow Heights boy and

• A 17-year-old Clifton Hill girl.

The seven teens will all be interviewed by police today.

A 15-year-old Werribee boy and a 19-year-old South Melbourne man were both arrested in relation to unrelated matters.

The arrests follow an incident on Sunday, 13 March in Reservoir where 16-year-old Declan Cutler was fatally assaulted and stabbed.

Emergency services were called to Elizabeth Street just before 2.30am after reports someone had been assaulted.

Declan was treated by paramedics and police, however he died at the scene.

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing and police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has other information and is yet to speak to police to come forward.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Commissioner Bob Hill, Crime Command:

“This was a profoundly violent criminal act which has been described by many experienced police as one of the most vicious and brutal attacks they have ever investigated.

“It’s every parent’s worst nightmare, having their teenage child leave the house for a night out with friends and never returning, however this is exactly what happened on this occasion.

“I understand that what we experienced in Melbourne two weekends ago has shocked and distressed many in the community.

“The senseless nature of this incident should not be lost on anyone – I know it has impacted our police.

“These arrests follow an extraordinary investigative effort by Crime Command detectives while supported by local police from the North West Metro Region – it is testament to Victoria Police’s unwavering resolve to hold those who commit these extreme acts of violence to account.

“I know many will be horrified by the young age of those arrested today but let me be very clear – we will be relentless in pursuing anyone responsible for this level of violence regardless of their age.

“There are so many impacted people whose lives have been changed forever by what happened the night Declan died, most of all his family.

“Our thoughts are very much with his loved ones and we will continue to ensure all the relevant support services are made available.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link

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