A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a missing 14-year-old girl was discovered in south Wales. The teenager, identified only as Lilly by Gwent Police, was found in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina, Gwent, at around 10.10pm on Monday.
Lilly had been reported missing after she was last seen in High Street, Blaina, at approximately 6.50pm on Saturday June 20. At the time, she was described as having dark hair and wearing a long black dress and black sandals.
Arrest and Investigation
Gwent Police confirmed that a 14-year-old boy from the Blaenau Gwent area has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in line with normal procedures.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas, the senior investigating officer, said: 'We continue to have a significant police presence in the area and understand the concern amongst our communities at this time. Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and we currently have one person in police custody being questioned.'
Appeal for Information
Detective Chief Inspector Thomas urged the public to come forward with any information and discouraged online speculation. 'I'm asking anyone with information to please come and speak with us – you can do this in person, or you can contact us on the usual channels. I'd also encourage people not to speculate online as this is a live investigation and such comments can have an impact on our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice.'
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gwent Police on 101, quoting reference 2600197059, via social media, or online. The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously.
Community Reaction
Floral tributes were left near the scene in Pilgrims Park, which is adjacent to the A467 in Blaina. Parts of the park were cordoned off after the body was discovered.
Niamh Salkeld, a Plaid Cymru Senedd member for Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni, expressed her sadness: 'I am deeply saddened by this tragic news. My thoughts are with Lilly's family, friends and loved ones at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. This news will have shocked communities across Blaenau Gwent, particularly in Blaina and among those who knew Lilly personally.'
Community councillor Lisa Winnett said: 'This is devastating news, thoughts and prayers are with the family at this unimaginable time. Liane Chalmers, our vicar at St Peter's Church Blaina, has opened the doors for anyone in the community that would like to light a candle for Lilly, write in a book of condolence or just a chat with the clergy and a cup of tea following the devastating news.'
Family's Appeal
Prior to the discovery, Lilly's family had appealed on social media for her to come home and organised searches in the local area. One relative posted: 'Lilly, please come home my girl, I promise you're not in any trouble no matter why or how, we just want you home. No matter where you are, find the nearest police station. No questions asked, you're not in any trouble we just love you and want you home.'
