A murder investigation has been launched after police searching for missing 14-year-old Lilly discovered a body in a park in Blaina, Wales. Formal identification has yet to take place, but Gwent Police have informed the girl's family of the discovery.
Officers were called to Pilgrims Park in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina at around 10pm on Monday. A police cordon remains in place, and forensic investigators continue to work at the scene. No arrests have been made, and police are actively searching for the perpetrator.
Timeline of Events
Lilly was last seen on High Street, Blaina, at approximately 6.50pm on Saturday. She is described as white, around 5ft6in tall, of medium build, with long black hair.
The discovery comes after extensive searches by family, friends, and the community, with police using drones and helicopters on Monday.
Police and Community Response
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas, said: "We understand that this will cause distress and concern amongst our communities. We have a large police presence in the area at this time as enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances of the death. Our officers are here and available for you to speak to. We encourage anyone with information to please speak with us or you can contact us on the usual channels."
Local councillor Lisa Catherine Winnett described the community as "totally devastated" by the news. She said: "My thoughts and prayers are with Lilly's family at this devastating and awful time. I hope police work promptly now to find the perpetrator. We are a close-knit community here in Blaina and the impact this has had on all of us is immense. Since Lilly was reported as missing there has been extensive searches by family, friends and members of the community. On Monday police had drones searching and helicopters. I would like to thank everyone involved in the searches. This outcome is totally unimaginable for us all."
Appeal for Information
Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Anyone with any information can contact police on 101, quoting reference 2600197059, send a direct message on Facebook or X, or visit the Gwent Police website. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
