Miya Deamer-Jones, an 11-year-old girl reported missing on Sunday evening, was found dead in a park near the cricket ground in Elmley Castle, Worcestershire. West Mercia Police said her death is being treated as unexplained, and an investigation is underway.
Discovery after missing report
Miya was reported missing at around 11.20pm on Sunday (October 4). She was later found dead in the park, and her family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers. Detectives are treating her death as unexplained.
Miya, a pupil at Bredon Hill Academy in the neighbouring village of Ashton under Hill, had been spending time with a friend at home before the pair went to the cricket field. Chalk markings were visible on the pavement outside her home, which also has a trampoline in the front garden, according to reports.
Community reaction
After Miya failed to return home, her family searched the village themselves before contacting police. Officers then launched their own search, which led to the discovery of her body.
Local resident Laurence O'Shaughnessy recalled hearing sirens between 11.15pm and 11.30pm, followed by further sirens at around midnight. He described Miya's death as 'frightening' and said he believes her body was found near the cricket nets.
A second local resident, a woman with 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. We all feel like (children) are fine here and safe. There’s always children playing here. You just wouldn’t expect it at all. I just can’t believe it. I will be fine, I have a lot of support around me… we will all be there for each other, I’m sure.”
Tributes and police appeal
Tributes have been left for Miya, including a sunflower placed on a nearby bench. A school friend 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."
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 currently being treated as unexplained, and we are carrying out enquiries to fully understand the circumstances and provide her family with the answers they deserve. 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.”
