Family pays tribute to daughter, 13, as Greater Manchester police investigate death

A family has paid tribute to their “one of a kind” 13-year-old daughter after her death a month ago as police said they would continue to investigate the full circumstances.

A 14-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of harassment and later bailed after the death of Madison Richardson.

Madison died in hospital on 24 November after emergency services were called at 5.30pm to reports of a concern for welfare at an address in Manchester, a police spokesperson for Greater Manchester police said.

On Christmas Eve, Madison’s parents paid tribute to their daughter.

In a statement they said: “We are heartbroken and devastated by the sudden loss of our daughter, Maddie. Maddie was a bubbly, loving character, she made everything into a joke and she lit up every room that she was in.

“Maddie had a laugh that everyone will remember her for! Maddie filled every room with her presence, she was fun to be around and always made us laugh. Maddie had a real passion for art, she was so talented and we are so unbelievably proud of her creativity.

“Maddie truly was one of a kind, she had a heart of gold and was fiercely protective of those she loved especially her siblings, who will miss her deeply. There is a void in our lives and we will miss Maddie sorely.”

Madison’s parents added that they would also like to mention the mental health charity YoungMinds.

James Docherty, the executive headteacher of Teenage Kicks school in Failsworth, also paid tribute to the teenager saying she had a “remarkable” talent.

He said: “Maddie was a wonderfully creative young girl, someone who saw the world through colours, ideas, and imagination. Whether she was sketching, painting or transforming herself with her incredible face-painting skills, Maddie had a gift for turning ordinary moments into something magical.

“Maddie didn’t just make beautiful art – she made people feel special. Even when she was having a rant, you knew deep down she didn’t mean it and she was soon back at the office door asking for something. There was a gentleness in her, a kindness that flowed naturally, and it touched pupils and staff alike.

“Maddie will forever be part of our school family, and she will be carried in our memories with love, pride, and endless appreciation for the light she brought into our lives.”

DI Andrew Day said Madison’s death was “utterly heartbreaking” for her friends and family, facing the first Christmas without her.

He added: “An arrest has been made in relation to allegations of harassment in the days leading up to her death, and while that boy has since been bailed, inquiries are very much ongoing.

“We are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of Madison’s death, which includes if the actions of anyone else contributed to it, and ultimately, to try and get much-needed answers for her family.”

Anyone with information has been asked to contact police.