Gwent Police have confirmed that a body discovered in Duffryn Park, Blaina, is that of missing 14-year-old Lilly Jones. A 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday accused of her murder. He did not enter a plea and has been remanded in custody until his next appearance.
Court Proceedings and Trial Date
The teenage defendant, from the Blaenau Gwent area, was described by police as white British. Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, the Recorder of Cardiff, set a trial date for November 23, expected to last four weeks. The boy remains in custody.
Disappearance and Discovery
Lilly was last seen on Blaina High Street at approximately 6:50pm on June 20. Her body was found on Monday, June 22, in the Duffryn Park area. Parts of Pilgrims Park, adjacent to the A467, were cordoned off during the investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas said: “Our thoughts remain with Lilly’s family and friends at this difficult time. Her family continue to be supported by specialist officers. I want to reiterate that it is vital that people consider how their language, especially comments made online, could affect our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice. The defendant cannot be named for legal reasons and should not be done so by anyone else on social media platforms.”
School and Community Response
Lilly was a student at Brynmawr Foundation School. Head teacher Gerard McNamara said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of one of our pupils, Lilly Jones. She was a valued member of our school community, known for her kindness, warmth, and bubbly personality. Her loss will be felt profoundly by students, staff, and all who knew her. The school is providing support to pupils and staff who have been affected.”
Floral tributes have been left near Duffryn Park, and a book of remembrance has been opened at the local church.
Police Investigation and IOPC Referral
Gwent Police have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in line with normal procedures. An IOPC spokesman said: “We can confirm we have received a mandatory referral from Gwent Police in connection with this matter. The referral is now being assessed to see if the IOPC needs to be involved any further.”
