The city’s MPs and the council leader have expressed their anger and sorrow after a boy was stabbed to death in the city centre.

The 17-year-old boy was attacked in Queen’s Road in Brighton at around 5pm last night.

He was taken to hospital but died of his injuries.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

Queen’s Road remains closed as the murder investigation continues, with the area likely to remain closed into the weekend.

Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, said she was “shocked” by the news and said: “My thoughts and sympathies with friends and loved ones.”

Council leader Bella Sankey also expressed her sorrow at the death of the teenager and said: “I am deeply saddened and concerned by the death of this young person and I know residents across the city are shocked and mournful.

“We are in contact with the police and those affected.”

Follow live updates after fatal stabbing in Brighton

Peter Kyle, MP for the neighbouring Hove constituency, said he was “angry and heartbroken” by the murder and said that residents across the city will also feel “shock and worry” after the incident.

He said: “It’s a gut-wrenching tragedy and my thoughts are with those affected. I’m relieved that a suspect is in custody and have confidence that Sussex Police will conduct their investigation rigorously.

“Parents, schools and authorities will need to find ways to sensitively reassure young people that our streets are safe for them.

“Horrific crimes of this nature have been experienced in an increasing number of towns and cities.

“I am as worried as everyone else by this trend which is why I want to halve serious violent crime and raise confidence in the police and criminal justice system and ensure young people get the support they need once again.”

Lloyd Russell-Moyle, MP for Brighton Kemptown, described the stabbing as a “senseless act of violence”.

“The impact on these families is unimaginable,” he said.

“My thoughts are with the victim and I hope for a swift and thorough investigation to determine the cause and secure a conviction.”

Anyone with information that could help the police investigation is urged to contact police online or via 101, quoting Operation Ash.