A 14-year-old girl, Lilly Jones, has been found dead in a park in Blaina, Wales, prompting a murder investigation. A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.
School pays tribute to 'kind and bubbly' pupil
Brynmawr Foundation School, where Lilly was a pupil, paid tribute to her, describing her as a 'valued member of our school community, known for her kindness, warmth, and bubbly personality.' Head teacher Gerard McNamara said her loss will be felt 'profoundly' by all who knew her. The school has closed due to severe weather warnings but is providing support to affected pupils and staff.
Community in shock as floral tributes appear
Residents in the small town of Blaina have been left in shock. Flowers and tributes have been left near Duffryn Park, where Lilly's body was discovered on Monday. One tribute described her as 'a beautiful girl' and an 'amazing friend.' Brynmawr Foundation School also left flowers near the police cordon with a message: 'Always in our hearts.'
Church opens doors for remembrance
Reverend Liane Chalmers of St Peter's Church, Blaina, said the church has opened its doors for 'anyone in the community to light a candle for Lilly, write in a book of condolence, or speak with the clergy.' Dozens of tealights have been lit next to a black and white photo of Lilly, and community members have been comforted with tea and biscuits.
Fundraiser raises over £12,000 for funeral
A fundraiser set up to help pay for Lilly's funeral and memorial has raised more than £12,000. The organiser said: 'Let's pull together again to raise enough money to give this beautiful angel the send off she deserves.'
Police investigation ongoing
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas said officers are working to establish the circumstances surrounding Lilly's death. 'We continue to have a significant police presence in the area and understand the concern amongst our communities at this time,' he said. 'Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and we currently have one person in police custody being questioned.' He urged anyone with information to come forward and discouraged online speculation.
Gwent Police has referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in line with normal procedures. An IOPC spokesman said: 'We can confirm we have received a mandatory referral from Gwent Police in connection with this matter. The referral is now being assessed to see if the IOPC needs to be involved any further.'
