The attack was conducted by alleged gang members, The Times reports, in front of a bus of horrified passengers. The boys were transported to a hospital where they succumbed to their injuries Sunday morning.
A 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy were arrested and are in police custody. Officers report a vehicle has also been seized. It is unclear whether the alleged attackers knew their victims.
Superintendent Mark Runacres said: "This is an incredibly shocking and tragic incident where two young boys, who had their whole lives ahead of them, have sadly died. Our collective thoughts are with their families at what is undoubtedly a very difficult time.
"Specialist family liaison officers will now be assigned to the families to provide them with support and keep them updated on the investigation. Members of the public can expect to see a large police presence as forensic searches and other inquiries are conducted. We have also identified several witnesses who we will be taking statements from.
“Detectives are particularly keen to speak with passengers on a bus which was on Ilminster Avenue at the time of the incident."
The mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, posted to social media following the attack: "Overnight we have sadly seen further tragic loss of life in our city. I’m thinking of the victims and their families, going through a pain that no parent should have to experience. We will do all we can to support the families and the local community, working with the police."
Avon and Somerset police made a joint statement: "Police arrived at the scene within minutes of the first call and did what they could to provide first aid. The victims sustained stab wounds and were taken to two hospitals where they sadly died in the early hours of [Sunday] morning. An investigation into the incident is being led by our major crime investigation team. Two arrests have already been made — a 44-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy. They remain in police custody."
