Lilly, 14, was last seen on the High Street in Blaina on Saturday evening (Image: Gwent Police)
A 14-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body of a missing teenage girl was found in south Wales. The teenager, from the Blaenau Gwent area, is currently in police custody.
Formal identification has yet to take place, however the family of Lilly, aged 14, who had been reported as missing has been informed. Specially trained officers continue to support her family. The body of a female was discovered in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina at around 10.10pm on Monday. Lilly had previously been reported missing, having last been seen in High Street, Blaina, at around 6.50pm on Saturday June 20.
Parts of the park were cordoned off (Image: Rod Minchin/PA Wire)
At that time the dark-haired teenager was wearing a long black dress and black sandals.
Senior Investigating Officer, 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.
“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.”
Parts of Pilgrims Park, which is adjacent to the A467 in Blaina, had been cordoned off and there was a heavy police presence in the area.
Floral tributes were also left close to the scene by members of the public.
Niamh Salkeld, a 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.”
Floral tributes have been left at the scene (Image: Rod Minchin/PA Wire)
Prior to the discovery, Lilly’s family had appealed on social media for her to come home and had also 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.”
Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward. You can contact police on 101, quoting 2600197059.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.