A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a body believed to be that of a missing girl was discovered in south Wales. Police were called to Duffryn Park in the town of Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, at approximately 10.10pm on Monday, where the body was found.
Formal identification has not yet taken place, but Gwent Police said the family of Lilly, a 14-year-old girl reported missing on Saturday, had been informed. The teenage boy, also from Blaenau Gwent, is currently in police custody as detectives continue a murder investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas said: “We continue to have a significant police presence in the area and understand the concern amongst our communities at this time. Our enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and we currently have one person in police custody being questioned.” He appealed for anyone with information to come forward and discouraged speculation online.
Lilly was last seen on Blaina’s High Street at approximately 6.50pm on Saturday, prompting a media notice from police on Monday afternoon. According to Wales Online, two young people searching for her found the body. Her family had made desperate social media appeals for her safe return.
Local councillor Lisa Catherine Winnett said the community was “devastated”, adding: “My thoughts and prayers are with Lilly’s family at this devastating and awful time.” She noted extensive searches by family and friends, with police using drones and helicopters. St Peter’s Church in Blaina has opened its doors for those wishing to light a candle or seek support.
