A family has paid a profound tribute to their “one of a kind” 13-year-old daughter, Madison Richardson, who tragically died a month ago. Madison passed away in hospital on November 24 after emergency services responded to a concern for welfare at an address in Manchester. Following her death, Greater Manchester Police launched a full investigation, leading to the arrest of a 14-year-old boy on suspicion of harassment; he has since been bailed, but inquiries are very much ongoing.

On Christmas Eve, Madison’s parents released a heartfelt statement, expressing their devastation: “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.” They further highlighted her deep passion for art, noting, “Maddie had a real passion for art, she was so talented and we are so unbelievably proud of her creativity.” The family emphasized her unique spirit, stating, “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.” They also took the opportunity to mention the mental health charity YoungMinds.

James Docherty, the executive headteacher of Teenage Kicks school in Failsworth, also paid tribute to Madison, describing her as a wonderfully creative young girl with a “remarkable” talent. He remarked, “Maddie 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.” Docherty added that Madison didn’t just make beautiful art, but she also made people feel special, noting her gentleness and kindness that touched both pupils and staff. “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,” he concluded.

Detective Inspector Andrew Day, from GMP's Oldham district, described Madison’s death as “utterly heartbreaking” for her friends and family, who faced their first Christmas without her. He confirmed that the investigation into the full circumstances of her death is continuing, including whether the actions of anyone else contributed to it, with the ultimate goal of providing much-needed answers for her family.

Further tributes poured in from Madison’s parents on Facebook. Her mum, Tessa, wrote of her struggle, “Ohh baby girl I'm finding it so hard without you keep waiting for you to walk through the door and tell me its just a bad dream I'm having,” sharing pictures of a necklace with Madison's face framed by angel wings. Her dad, Leon, posted a poignant message to his “princess my angel and my first born child,” adding, “I love you so much you go rest and be free with the angels.. baby girl I'm so sorry RIP my beautiful little angel,” alongside childhood photos of Madison. Madison’s funeral is scheduled for December 30, with a wake to follow at a local cricket club, and her family has requested that everyone attending wears pink. Anyone with information is urged to contact police via 101 or gmp.police.uk, quoting log 2471 of November 24, or to contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.