A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a missing 14-year-old girl was discovered in south Wales. The victim, named only as Lilly by Gwent Police, was found in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina at approximately 10.10pm on Monday, June 22. She had been reported missing after last being seen on High Street, Blaina, at around 6.50pm on Saturday, June 20.
Arrest and investigation
Gwent Police confirmed that a 14-year-old boy from the Blaenau Gwent area has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody. The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in line with normal procedures.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas, the senior investigating officer, said: “We continue to have a significant police presence in the area and understand the concern among our communities at this time. Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and we currently have one person in police custody being questioned. I’m asking anyone with information to please come and speak with us – you can do this in person, or you can contact us on the usual channels. I’d also encourage people not to speculate online as this is a live investigation and such comments can have an impact on our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice.”
Community response
Parts of Pilgrims Park, near the A467 in Blaina, were cordoned off after Lilly’s body was discovered. Floral tributes have been left near the scene by members of the public.
Niamh Salkeld, Plaid Cymru Senedd member for Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni, said: “I am deeply saddened by this tragic news. My thoughts are with Lilly’s family, friends and loved ones at what must be an unimaginably difficult time. This news will have shocked communities across Blaenau Gwent, particularly in Blaina and among those who knew Lilly personally. I know many people will be struggling to come to terms with what has happened. As Gwent Police continue their investigation, I would encourage anyone who may have information that could assist their inquiries to come forward and contact them.”
Community councillor Lisa Winnett added: “This is devastating news, thoughts and prayers are with the family at this unimaginable time. Liane Chalmers, our vicar at St Peter’s Church Blaina, has opened the doors for anyone in the community that would like to light a candle for Lilly, write in a book of condolence or just a chat with the clergy and a cup of tea following the devastating news.”
Family appeal
Before her body was found, Lilly’s family had appealed on social media for her to come home and organised searches around the local area. One relative posted: “Lilly, please come home my girl, I promise you’re not in any trouble no matter why or how, we just want you home. No matter where you are, find the nearest police station. No questions asked, you’re not in any trouble we just love you and want you home.”
Lilly was described as a dark-haired teenager wearing a long black dress and black sandals when she was last seen. Gwent Police continue to urge anyone with information to come forward.
