POLICE have launched a murder investigation after a nine-year-old girl died in Weston-super-Mare.
Emergency services were called to a home in Lime Close, Mead Vale, at just after 6pm yesterday (December 15) – with the child sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
A teenage boy was later arrested, in Worle, at 6.19pm and remains in custody, arrested on suspicion of murder.
Superintendent Jen Appleford said: “We know the whole of Weston-super-Mare will be distraught and shocked to learn of this utterly dreadful news.
“The girl’s family were informed last night of what had happened. It is impossible for us to adequately put into words the pain and anguish they are feeling right now.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to them, and we’ll ensure they receive support from a specially-trained officer.
“A criminal investigation is already well underway to establish the facts of this case. The formal identification process has not yet been completed, and a post-mortem examination will also be conducted.
“Out of respect for the family we’d please ask people not to speculate on the circumstances, or the identities of those involved, because that will only add to their enormous distress.”
A police cordon remains in place in Lime Close as investigations continue, with house-to-house enquiries underway.
Supt Jen Appleford, of Avon and Somerset Police
Supt Appleford added: “We have no doubt the community will come together as one in response to this tragedy.
“Enquiries are being carried out at the property as part of our investigation and we’d ask for people’s patience and understanding while that work is undertaken.
“We will ensure our officers are available to provide reassurance and support to all. There will be an increased police presence in the area in the coming days, and we urge anyone with concerns to please speak to us, however we’d like to reassure people we are not aware of there being any increased risk to public safety.
“We will continue to provide updates to the public as our investigation progresses.”
Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 101 and quote reference number 5225352036.
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Councillor Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said he was “shocked and saddened” by the incident.
“My thoughts are with all those affected, particularly the family and friends of the girl who has lost her life,” he went on.
“An arrest has been made, police investigations are live and the community will, I am sure, pull together to support each other at this difficult time.”
