TRAGIC Oliva Pratt-Korbel's dad today begged for help in putting her killer behind bars as he released heart-warming footage of her cuddling him.

Innocent Olivia, nine, was caught in the crossfire of an alleged “tit-for-tat” gang war in Liverpool on August 22.

Her dad John Francis Pratt and his family today paid tribute to the youngster.

He also shared touching footage of Olivia cuddling up to him at a Christmas market while riding on a carousel.

They said: "Olivia was a real bright spark who knew her own mind, had no problem making friends (she would talk to anyone) and loved to laugh and make people laugh.

"She could be a proper wind-up merchant and loved to wind her nieces up, particularly those who were older than her, and when they didn't like it she'd just laugh and say 'don't forget I'm your aunty'.

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"Olivia's future has been cruelly snatched away from her and we have been deprived of a real light in our lives.

"We know that there has been an exceptional response to police appeals and we would like to thank those who have come forward.

"At the same time, we want to urge others who may have evidence to keep coming forward with information which could help put those responsible for our Olivia's murder behind bars."

The family also thanked "good-hearted and kind" family, friends and neighbours for their support following the horror.

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And they urged anyone with information to come forward as loved ones continue to wait for justice.

The heartbroken family added: "We don't want another child to lose their life in such horrendous circumstances and we don't want to see another family suffer like we are suffering now.

"Olivia's death cannot be in vain and we want people to feel safe and be safe, that can only happen if we all come together and make sure there is no place for guns, or those who use guns on our streets or in our communities.

"If you have information make sure you tell the police and if you don't feel able to do that give the information to Crimestoppers anonymously so action can be taken. If you can't do it for yourself, do it in Olivia's name and for children across Merseyside who deserve to enjoy their lives to the full."

The tribute comes as police launched a #SilenceIsNotAnOption campaign on social media.

Ex-Liverpool star Jamie Carragher is among those who have supported the drive to encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Officers have also been granted an extension to quiz three men over Olivia's death.

The suspects include 34-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder.

Police are also interviewing a 41-year-old man and a 29-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

A fourth man, 34, held yesterday on suspicion of assisting an offender remains in custody.

TRAGIC END

The bloodbath unfolded when intended target Joseph Nee rushed into Olivia’s home to escape a gunman who shot at him and a second man on the street.

Mum Cheryl appeared to have opened the front door to see what the commotion was when the 35-year-old forced his way inside.

The shooter then followed and began peppering the home with bullets – hitting Cheryl first then Olivia, who was standing behind her mum.

Tragically, Olivia was declared dead shortly after, while her mum was treated for a gunshot wound to the wrist.

Intended target Nee was treated for multiple wounds to his upper body.

As Olivia lay dying, his friends picked him up in a black Audi and took him to hospital.

Nee has since been recalled to jail for breaching the terms of his release.

The "cold-blooded" killer was also caught on CCTV running away from the property moments after the horror.

Head of Investigations Mark Kameen said it is believed he was carrying two guns.

It was previously thought just one firearm had been used – with cops still searching for the weapons.

The officer said: "I continue to urge anyone who has information that can help our investigation into Olivia's tragic murder to please come forward so we can bring those responsible to justice.

"A number of people have been arrested in respect of this investigation.

"However, we still need the public's help in ensuring that we can build a strong evidential picture so justice is served for Olivia and her family.

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"With this, I appeal for those who may have information, no matter how small, that could continue to help our inquiries, to contact us directly or anonymously and we will do the rest."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Merseyside Police, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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