TRAGIC: Rachel Davies

The 28-year-old man was pretending to be The Terminator at a party when the weapon suddenly went off.

Rachel Davies, 18, was hit in the eye and a pellet lodged in her brain. She lost her fight for life 16 days later.

Police originally arrested the man on suspicion of attempted murder and are expected to question him again on suspicion of Rachel’s murder.

The tragedy occurred on December 7 when Rachel’s boyfriend threw an all-day party for friends at his flat in Bury, Greater Manchester.

It is believed the suspect had bought the air rifle the previous day and decided to bring it to the bash to show it off to friends.

He was pretending to be the movie robot, played by actor turned politician Arnold Schwarzenegger, 61, when it suddenly went off.

Paramedics were called to the scene and the suspect was arrested nearby.

One neighbour said: “There was lots of noise coming from the flat. We believe the guy was pretending to be Arnold Schwarzenegger. Then the gun suddenly went off. It was a terrible accident and a terrible tragedy.”

Rachel was studying at St Monica Roman Catholic High School in Prestwich, Manchester, and was deciding whether to pursue a career in teaching or hairdressing.

In a statement, her parents Ricky and Angela said: “There are no adequate words to express the deep sadness we feel at the loss of our eldest daughter Rachel.”

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: “A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and released on bail. Inquries are ongoing.”
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