A 14-year-old boy accused of murdering a schoolgirl has appeared in court, charged after the body of 14-year-old Lilly Jones was discovered in a park in Blaina, South Wales.
Court Appearance and Remand
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Newport Magistrates Court on Friday, June 26, 2026. He spoke only to confirm his name, age, and address, wearing a grey t-shirt. District judge Sophie Toms remanded him in secure youth detention accommodation until his next hearing at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday, June 29.
The defendant was arrested on Tuesday, June 23, on suspicion of murder after the body of a girl was found in Duffryn Park at around 10:10 pm on Monday, June 22. Police believe the body is that of Lilly Jones, though formal identification has not yet taken place. Lilly's family have been informed and are being supported.
Community Tributes and Police Investigation
Prior to the hearing, a Gwent Police spokesperson confirmed that the 14-year-old, from the Blaenau Gwent area, had been charged with murder. The white British boy was remanded in police custody before his court appearance. Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Lilly at this difficult time. We understand that there has been a great deal of interest in this ongoing investigation. 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."
DCI Thomas added: "Even though we’ve reached this significant development in our investigation, our enquiries continue and you will still see a significant police presence in the area. Examinations of scenes will be continuing over the coming days, including at Duffryn Park, where cordons remain in place. I would like to thank local residents for their continued support and those impacted by the cordons for their patience during this time."
School Pays Tribute to Lilly
Brynmawr Foundation School, where Lilly was a pupil, paid tribute to her. The head teacher described Lilly as a "valued member of the school community" known for her "kindness, warmth, and bubbly personality." The school stated that her loss will be felt "profoundly" by all who knew her. Tributes have also been left near Duffryn Park, where a police cordon remains in place.
Lilly, from Blaina, had been reported missing since Saturday, June 20, before her body was discovered. The community has come together to pay respects, with flowers and messages left at the scene.
