A 13-year-old boy and man in his twenties have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a 25-year-old woman was stabbed to death. 

Northamptonshire Police said the woman was knifed near St George’s Way in Rushden at about 8.30pm on Saturday.

Despite receiving treatment from paramedics, the victim died at the scene, a force spokesman said.

A 27-year-old man and a 13-year-old boy have been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident and are in police custody.

A second 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is also in custody.

On Sunday a guard remained at the scene of the incident, and drivers have been advised to avoid Wellingborough Road for the remainder of the day. 

Increased police patrols have been put on the streets in order to help reassure the local community.

Detective inspector Pete Long, said: “This was an extremely tragic incident in which a young woman has lost her life and I want to reassure people that we are doing all we can to bring those responsible to justice.

“A large team of detectives have been working on this case around the clock and a number of lines of inquiry are being pursued as part of this fast-paced investigation.

“This incident has really shocked the Rushden community, many of whom were on the scene last night, and I would ask anyone who was there and saw what happened to please come forward with your information.”

Long also urged anyone with dash-cam footage of the area at the time to contact police.