The first photo of the 11-year-old girl found dead in a park has been released as a police investigation continues. The girl, named as Miya Deamer-Jones, was first reported missing on Sunday evening. Her body was found shortly after in a park near Elmley Castle Cricket Club in Worcestershire.
West Mercia Police confirmed her family has been informed and is being supported by specially trained officers. Miya attended Bredon Hill Academy, a school in the nearby village of Ashton under Hill. It is believed she had been playing with a friend at home before they went to the cricket field.
Community tributes and shock
Chalk marks could be seen on the pavement outside her home, where there is also a trampoline in the front garden. However, the 11-year-old failed to return home and her family searched the village for her, reports The Express.
Tributes have since flooded in for the 11-year-old, including a sunflower left on a nearby bench in her memory. A schoolfriend who left the flowers said: "You have no idea how much I miss you. You will always be a part of me and a part of my heart. I love you so much and it will be hard to cope without you."
A woman who lives in the area and has a daughter the same age said it was a "real shock". Speaking to the Press Association, she said: "It is such a close community, everybody knows everybody here. It is generally safe, so it's just a real shock."
Police statement on the investigation
Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington said: "We know the death of a young girl will be deeply upsetting for the local community, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends at this time."
"Her death is being treated as unexplained, and we are carrying out enquiries to fully understand the circumstances and provide her family with the answers they deserve."
He added: "We would also ask people not to speculate about the circumstances surrounding her death. This is an incredibly difficult time for her family, and I would urge everyone to be mindful of the impact that speculation could have on them."
"People may notice an increased police presence in Elmley Castle while these enquiries continue. I want to reassure residents that this is part of our work to establish exactly what has happened, and officers will also be available to speak to anyone in the community who has concerns."
