Tragic Details Emerge in Aria Thorpe Inquest
A nine-year-old girl died as a result of a single stab wound to her chest, a coroner's court has been told. The victim, named as Aria Thorpe, was attacked at a property on Lime Close shortly before 6.10pm on 15 December.
Coroner's officer Andrew Eastwood informed Avon Coroners' Court that the young girl passed away at her home address from the fatal injury. A 15-year-old boy was arrested and charged with her murder a short time after the incident.
Family's Heartbreaking Tributes to a 'Beautiful Soul'
Aria's father, Tom Thorpe, paid an emotional tribute, describing his daughter as a brave, kind-hearted, and beautiful innocent soul. "It's hard to put into words how devastating it is," he said, adding that her "wacky ways" and affection for others always brought smiles to people's faces.
He recalled a cherished family memory from Disneyland, saying, "seeing your face light up when we were watching the princess show was a picture that will last forever in our minds."
Aria's maternal family also shared their grief, stating she was a "happy-go-lucky" child, full of light and joy who loved to sing, dance, and dress up. "The loss of Aria has devastated us beyond words. Our hearts are broken in a way we never imagined possible," they said.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
The teenage boy accused of Aria's murder, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been remanded into youth detention accommodation. He is scheduled to stand trial in June.
Area coroner for Avon, Dr Peter Harrowing, directed that the full post-mortem report be provided by 16 February. He listed Aria's family and the alleged perpetrator as interested persons in the case.
Due to the ongoing criminal proceedings, Dr Harrowing did not list the matter for an inquest but set a review date for 10 April. He clarified this would not be a court hearing and that any further coronial proceedings would depend on the outcome of the police investigation and criminal trial.
