The girl has been identified as Lilija Valutīte, a Lithuanian living in Boston. Her body was found on the street on Thursday around 18.20.

On Friday morning, after the investigation, two people were arrested on suspicion of murder.

A murder investigation has been launched after a 9 year old girl died from a suspected stab wound in Boston. Officers were called to Fountain Lane at around 6.20pm yesterday evening. Police say they will be at the scene for the “foreseeable future”. pic.twitter.com/udz6mENQly

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Chief Inspector Kate Anderson of Lincolnshire Police said: “Our thoughts are with Lily’s family and friends.” Anderson described the nine-year-old’s death as a “huge tragedy”.

Lily’s parents are given psychological support.

A small tent has been pitched at the scene of the murder near a historic city church, where forensics officers have been collecting evidence. Flowers, toys and candles are placed on the side of the street in memory of the girl.

“This incident has shocked our Boston community, and I want to assure the public that we are doing everything we can to move forward with the investigation and support the family,” a police spokeswoman said.