A community in Somerset is in shock after the tragic death of a nine-year-old girl, which has led to the arrest of a teenage boy on suspicion of murder.
Police Respond to Emergency Call
Avon and Somerset Police were called by paramedics to a property in the North Somerset town of Weston-super-Mare shortly after 6pm on Monday evening. The first officer arrived at the scene at 6.12pm. In a swift development, a teenage boy was located and arrested in the nearby area of Worle at 6.19pm. He remains in police custody.
Community Reeling from "Utterly Dreadful" News
Superintendent Jen Appleford expressed the force's profound sympathy, stating the whole town would be "distraught and shocked". She acknowledged the unimaginable pain of the girl's family, who were informed on Monday night. "It is impossible for us to adequately put into words the pain and anguish they are feeling right now," Appleford said. The family are being supported by a specially trained officer.
A formal identification and a post-mortem examination are yet to be completed as part of the ongoing investigation. A police cordon remains in place at the property on Lime Close while forensic inquiries and house-to-house investigations continue.
Increased Police Presence for Reassurance
Superintendent Appleford urged the public to be patient while police work at the scene. She confirmed there would be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days to offer reassurance and support. "We urge anyone with concerns to please speak to us," she added, while stressing that "we are not aware of there being any increased risk to public safety."
The police have expressed confidence that the close-knit community of Weston-super-Mare will come together in response to this profound tragedy. The criminal investigation to establish the full facts of the case is described as being well under way.
