Police silence Facebook gossips over death of York schoolboy, 12

The 12-year-old from York High School, named locally as Liam Cole, was discovered unconscious at the property in Acomb, on Sunday afternoon.

Several tributes have been left on Facebook by friends, but North Yorkshire Police urged people not to speculate about his death, in particular social network users.

Detective Inspector Maria Taylor, from York CID, said: "The boy's family are naturally in a state of shock and struggling to come to terms with his tragic death.

"Police officers are doing everything they can to support them at this very difficult time. City of York Council have also made arrangements to comfort and support his many school friends who have been left devastated by the sad news.

"From our inquiries, we do not believe that his death was suspicious. However, it is still important for the police to establish the full circumstances surrounding his death for use at a future inquest.

"While this investigation continues, and out of respect to his loved ones, we ask people not to speculate about his death, in particular social network users, and to consider his family at this very upsetting time."

Head teacher of York High School David Ellis said: "Everyone in our school community is devastated by the news.

"I can tell you that the pupil was a lovely young man who was incredibly popular with staff and his peers. It was not unusual for him to sit and have lunch with me and he really enjoyed school. He was involved in lots of activities at school, often arriving as early as possible and staying late to attend after-school clubs.

"We are all heartbroken that a young man with so much to offer has been taken away from us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this terrible time. We are all pulling together to support each other, our young people and their families."