Vandalism arrest after graffiti tributes to teenager killed in smash appear

An arrest has been made after tributes for a teenager killed in a motorbike crash in Tameside were reportedly graffitied onto buildings, flats and signs in the local area.

Police said that although they 'understand people wish to pay their respects', that 'vandalism and graffiti will not be tolerated'. One person has been arrested and officers will now be taking a 'pro-active' stance against the issue, they added.

This comes after tributes were reportedly spray-painted in public areas in Denton and Audenshaw. Local residents said the Civic Square in Denton, the library and Victoria Park were vandalised.

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This afternoon, pictures showed graffiti reading 'RIP Kenna' painted onto the sign for the Guide Bridge Medical Centre on Guide Lane. The Manchester Evening News understands that graffiti was also sprayed onto the side of some flats.

The tributes are believed to be for 16-year-old Mckenna Leigh, who was killed in a crash on Denton Road in Audenshaw on Saturday (September 17). The teenager was riding a Honda motorbike which collided with a Vauxhall Vivaro van.

Mr Leigh suffered multiple injuries and sadly died a short time later. His family are being supported by specially trained police officers.

The driver of the Vivaro stayed at the scene to assist police with their enquiries. An investigation is ongoing, police said today.

In a post on GMP Tameside South & West Facebook page earlier today, police said: "Police are currently investigating a tragic accident that occurred in Audenshaw over the weekend. Whilst understanding people wish to pay their respects, criminal activity in the form of vandalism and graffiti will not be