Kevin Kerjean, a 31-year-old French national born in the Central African Republic, has been charged with the rape and murder of a two-year-old girl in Chertsey, Surrey. Police were called to a block of flats in Pyrcroft Road at approximately 5:40 PM on Thursday, June 26, 2026, following concerns for the child's safety. Officers discovered the girl's body and found Kerjean with serious injuries. He was arrested at the scene and taken to hospital for treatment; he will be taken into custody once discharged.
Charges and Court Appearance
Kerjean faces additional charges of rape of a child under 13 and sexual assault of a child under 13. He appeared at Guildford Magistrates' Court on Saturday, June 28, and was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear at Guildford Crown Court on Monday, June 30.
Immigration Status
The Home Office confirmed that Kerjean legally entered the UK and applied for European Union Settled Status in December 2020. He was granted leave to remain in March 2021 and received an extension permitting him to stay until March 2031.
Police Investigation
Surrey Police addressed online speculation that the incident occurred in an asylum seeker HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation), stating: 'This is incorrect. At this time, it is understood that those involved were known to each other and officers believe it took place within a family setting.'
Detective Chief Superintendent Jon Groenen said: 'This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the child’s family, as well as all those who knew her. Our teams are working hard to build a picture of what happened, and a significant police presence will remain in Pyrcroft Road over the coming days. We appreciate that the incident itself, as well as the significant police presence, will be concerning for residents and we would like to thank them for their co-operation as we conduct our investigation.'
The force added: 'At this stage, we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.'
Community Response
Bouquets of flowers were left at the entrance to Syward Place, a flat complex on the corner of Pyrcroft Road and Bell Bridge Road, as the community mourns the loss of the young girl.
