An 11-year-old girl has been found dead in a park after being reported missing, with her mum described as living through "every parent's worst nightmare." Miya Deamer-Jones was reported missing at around 11.20pm on Sunday, October 4, before her body was discovered shortly afterwards in an open space near a cricket ground in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire.
Police rule out suspicious circumstances
West Mercia Police has since confirmed officers found no evidence of suspicious circumstances following "detailed and extensive enquiries," with third-party involvement ruled out. The circumstances surrounding Miya's death will now be considered by a coroner, while police have urged people not to speculate about what happened.
Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington said: "At the heart of this tragedy is a family who have lost a daughter and sister. Our thoughts remain with them, her friends and everyone who knew and loved her as they face an unimaginable loss."
Appeal against speculation
Ch Insp Pilkington also appealed for people to avoid speculation, warning that "sharing unverified information can cause additional distress to a family already living through every parent’s worst nightmare." He added: "We know news like this is deeply upsetting. It has shocked the local community and touched the hearts of people far beyond it. We understand that naturally people want answers when something so tragic happens, and that uncertainty can be difficult."
"Our officers have worked tirelessly and thoroughly to establish the circumstances surrounding her death. We have kept an open mind and examined all available lines of enquiry. Following these detailed and extensive enquiries, we can confirm that we have found no evidence of suspicious circumstances or any third-party involvement in her death, and it is not being treated as a criminal investigation. A full file will now be prepared for HM Coroner, who will consider the circumstances of her death in due course, as is the standard process."
Fundraiser launched for family
A fundraiser has now been launched by one of Miya's mother's childhood friends to help the grieving family. It reads: "Our hearts are completely broken for my dear friend Katie, who has suffered every parent’s worst nightmare. Her beautiful little girl, Miya Deamer-Jones, just 11 years old, has tragically been taken from her. Miya was the youngest of four sisters, a precious little girl who was deeply loved by her mum and her three sisters."
The fundraiser had raised over £5,300 towards its £6,000 target, with donations intended to help give Miya a funeral and lasting gravestone. The message continued: "She was her precious youngest daughter, her baby girl, and no amount of money could ever begin to ease the pain of losing her. But your kindness could take away some of the financial pressure Katie is facing at the most devastating time of her life." It concluded: "Fly high, beautiful Miya. You were loved, you are loved, and you will never be forgotten."
