A 14-year-old boy is in custody after the body of a missing girl was discovered in south Wales on Monday evening. Gwent Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of Lilly, aged 14, whose remains were found in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina at around 10.10pm.
Discovery and arrest
The teenager, from the Blaenau Gwent area, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. The force confirmed the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) “in line with normal procedures”. Parts of Pilgrims Park, which lies adjacent to the A467 in Blaina, were cordoned off as forensic teams worked at the scene. Police drones and helicopters were deployed during the search on Monday.
Missing person appeal
Lilly had previously been reported missing, having last been seen on High Street, Blaina, at around 6.50pm on Saturday, June 20. She was described as white, about 5ft 6in tall, with a medium build and long black hair. At the time she was last seen she was wearing a long black dress and black sandals. Her family issued urgent appeals on social media over the weekend, stressing that her disappearance was out of character. They organised local searches for her. In one plea, Lilly’s aunt, Zoe Jones, wrote: “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.” Gwent Police issued a public appeal for information about Lilly’s whereabouts at around 2pm on Monday, hours before her body was discovered.
Police investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas, the senior investigating officer, said inquiries were ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the death. “We continue to have a significant police presence in the area and understand the concern amongst our communities at this time,” he said. “Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and we currently have one person in police custody being questioned.” He appealed directly for public help: “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.” DCI Thomas also urged the public not to speculate on social media, warning that “such comments can have an impact on our ability to bring anyone found to have committed a criminal offence to justice.” Lilly’s family are being supported by specially trained officers. Police confirmed that Lilly had links to the nearby town of Brynmawr. The force continues to maintain a significant presence in the Duffryn Park and Pilgrims Park areas.
Community response
Floral tributes have been left close to the scene by members of the public. Community councillor Lisa Winnett, the Welsh Labour councillor for Blaina ward, described the news as “devastating” and offered thoughts and prayers to the family. “This is devastating news, thoughts and prayers are with the family at this unimaginable time,” she said, adding that Liane Chalmers, the 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.” Niamh Salkeld, the Plaid Cymru Senedd Member for Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni – who took office on May 8, 2026 – expressed her deep sadness. “My thoughts are with Lilly’s family, friends and loved ones at what must be an unimaginably difficult time,” she said. “This news will have shocked communities across Blaenau Gwent, particularly in Blaina and among those who knew Lilly personally. 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.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Gwent Police on 101, quoting reference 2600197059, or through social media or online. The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously.
