Yahoo News Pictured: Teen murderer, 17, who stabbed schoolgirl Ellie Gould to death
The identity of the killer of schoolgirl Ellie Gould has been revealed for the first time.
Thomas Griffiths, 17, can be named publicly after a judge lifted reporting restrictions at Bristol Crown Court.
Griffiths admitted murdering Year 12 pupil Ellie in Calne, Wiltshire, on May 3 of this year.
Ellie, 17, was pronounced dead from stab wounds after emergency services were called to Springfield Drive at 3.15pm.
Griffiths, of Derry Hill, was arrested seven miles away shortly after she passed.
Her family previously described the keen horse rider as "a kind, caring young lady with a wonderful, fun personality".
Wiltshire Police said the attack was not at random attack, confirming Ellie and Griffiths knew each other.
Following an application by the PA news agency Judge Peter Blair QC, the Recorder of Bristol, said it was "appropriate, reasonable and proportionate" for him to lift reporting restrictions that prevented the media identifying Griffiths.
The case was adjourned to November 8 when Griffiths will be sentenced. The 17-year-old is remanded in custody until that date.
Wiltshire Police Detective Inspector, Jim Taylor, said: “Ellie was murdered as a result of a violent attack.
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Girl, 17, murdered in Wiltshire named as Ellie Gould
“While I am pleased that Ellie’s family will not have to endure a lengthy trial process in court which would have caused them further distress, I know just how difficult this whole period has been for them.
“They should have been enjoying the school holidays with their daughter, but instead, they are coming to terms with the fact she has been cruelly taken away from them in unthinkable circumstances.
“From what they have told me, Ellie was an extremely popular, fun-loving, kind, gentle and caring girl.
“Her tragic death has shocked the community of Calne, as well as the many young people and teaching staff at Hardenhuish School, where Ellie was studying.
“Nothing will ever fill the void that Ellie’s death will leave in the lives of all those who knew her, but I hope that this outcome, and the upcoming sentencing, provides them with some comfort and enables them to concentrate on remembering Ellie and the many happy memories they have of her.”
