School pay tribute to 'one-of-a-kind' girl as investigations into her death continue

The school of 13-year-old Casey-Louise Horrocks have paid tribute to ‘one-of-a-kind young person’ following her sudden and tragic death, which has prompted a major police investigation.

Casey-Louise, a pupil at Mossley Hollins High School in Tameside, was found unresponsive at a flat in Huddersfield on Tuesday, August 12th. She was taken to hospital but sadly passed away a short time later.

Her death is being treated as "unexplained" after a post-mortem examination was unable to determine the cause. West Yorkshire Police have launched a rape and murder inquiry, describing the investigation as “complex” and likely to be “lengthy.”

A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of rape and murder, as well as in connection with a separate rape reported in the Kirklees area. He has since been released on conditional bail as enquiries continue.

Casey-Louise, who had been living in Liverpool at the time, was visiting Huddersfield the day before her death. It is understood she was in the care system.

In a heartfelt tribute, her family said: “Suddenly and totally unexpected, on Tuesday 12th August our beautiful Casey-Louise gained her angel wings. Our family is absolutely devastated by this news. Can you please respect our privacy and give us time to grieve as a family.”

Casey-Louise school, Mossley Hollins, has now issued a statement, honouring Casey-Louise’s life and impact on the school community: “We are deeply saddened to acknowledge the tragic death of Casey-Louise, who was a pupil at Mossley Hollins.  This heartbreaking news has deeply affected our community and as we come to terms with this loss, our thoughts are with Casey-Louise’s family, loved ones and all those impacted at this incredibly difficult time.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of Casey Louise, a one-of-a-kind young person who brought spirit and warmth wherever she went. Casey was bright, full of character, always full of life, and never afraid to be herself. Those lucky enough to know her saw what a big heart she had. She was funny, sweet, had a smile that could brighten anyone’s day and will be deeply missed by our school community.

“We understand that such events can bring about a range of emotions and concerns. To ensure everyone feels supported, Educational Psychology teams will be present in school when the new term begins in September. They will be available to offer pupils and staff emotional support, guidance, and a safe space for anyone who needs to talk. We encourage open and compassionate conversations at home and in school, and we are here to help in any way we can.”

A fundraising campaign has also been launched to support Casey-Louise’s family and help give her the send-off she deserves. Organiser Tina Cooper wrote: “I am fundraising for this beautiful young lady Casey-Louise, who was tragically taken away from her family. Casey was a vibrant, happy 13-year-old with all her life ahead of her. Let’s help her family send their daughter on her final journey with dignity.”

The GoFundMe page can be found at: www.gofundme.com/f/caseylouise

West Yorkshire Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Casey-Louise’s death. A spokesperson previously said: “Detectives are working to fully understand the circumstances of the girl’s death which is being treated as unexplained after a post mortem could not establish how she died.”