The community of Walton-on-Thames in Surrey is reeling after the fatal stabbing of a 16-year-old girl, Aria Thorpe. The teenager was found with serious injuries and later pronounced dead, sparking a major murder investigation by Surrey Police.
A Tragic Discovery in a Suburban Street
Police were called to the scene on Ambleside Avenue at approximately 22:20 BST on Tuesday, 21 May. Officers discovered Aria Thorpe with critical stab wounds. Despite the immediate efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the location.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that the teenager died as a result of a stab wound. The investigation, led by the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, is treating her death as murder. A dedicated team of detectives is working around the clock to piece together the events that led to this tragedy.
Heartbroken Family Pays Moving Tribute
In a statement released through the police, Aria's family expressed their profound grief. They described her as a "beautiful, funny, and caring girl" whose life was brutally cut short.
"Aria was a beautiful, funny and caring girl. She was a loving daughter, sister, granddaughter and niece," the family said. They spoke of the immense void left by her loss, stating, "We are utterly devastated by her death. She will be missed every single day."
The family has requested privacy as they attempt to cope with their unimaginable loss during this incredibly difficult time.
Police Appeal for Information
Detective Chief Inspector Debbie White, who is leading the investigation, emphasised the force's commitment to finding answers. "This is a tragic incident in which a young girl has lost her life, and our thoughts are with her family and friends," she stated.
DCI White confirmed that a scene guard remained in place on Ambleside Avenue as forensic work continued. Police are actively pursuing several lines of enquiry and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the Ambleside Avenue area between 9pm and 11pm on Tuesday night, or anyone with relevant dashcam, doorbell, or CCTV footage. The public can contact police directly or provide information anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers.
The murder of Aria Thorpe has sent shockwaves through the local area, raising urgent concerns about youth violence and knife crime in communities across the UK.
