Body found in south Wales believed to be missing 14-year-old girl | Wales
Police have launched a murder investigation after a body believed to be that of a 14-year-old girl was found in South Wales.
In a statement from the police force, it was stated that the body was found in Duffryn Park in the town of Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, at around 22.10 on Monday.
No formal identification has been made, but police said the family of 14-year-old Lilly, who was reported missing on Saturday, has been notified. The force has urged anyone with information about the case to come forward.
DCI Steven Thomas said: “We understand this will cause distress and concern within our communities. “We currently have a large police presence in the area as investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances of the death.
“Our officers are here and available for you to speak to. We ask anyone with information to please speak to us or contact us through normal channels.”
Gwent police launched a media appeal for help finding Lilly on Monday afternoon after she was last seen in Blaina’s High Street at around 6.50pm on Saturday. Wales Online reported that two teenagers searching for him found the body.
Members of Lilly’s family also made frantic calls on social media to locate her. “[She] His aunt Zoe Jones wrote: “I went out at 6.30am and didn’t come home, very out of character.” “Lilly please come home girl, I promise you’re not in trouble…we just want you home.”
Local councilor Lisa Catherine Winnett said the community was “devastated” by the news. “My thoughts and prayers are with Lilly’s family at this devastating and terrible time,” he said. “I hope the police take immediate action to find the perpetrator.
“We are a close-knit community here in Blaina and the impact this has on all of us is huge. Since Lilly was reported missing, there has been an extensive search by family, friends and community members. On Monday, police searched with drones and helicopters.
“I want to thank everyone who participated in the searches. This outcome is absolutely unimaginable for all of us.”
Agency photos showed a police cordon and heavy police presence in the area on Tuesday. Forensic investigators and emergency services have been working in the Duffryn Park area since Monday night.
