A teenage boy has been taken into custody on suspicion of murder after a nine-year-old girl died in a quiet Somerset neighbourhood, leaving a community in profound shock.
Police Investigation Underway in Lime Close
Emergency services rushed to an address in Lime Close, in the Mead Vale area of Weston-super-Mare, at approximately 6pm on Monday, 15 December 2025. Despite the efforts of paramedics, the young girl was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family has been informed of the tragedy.
In a swift police response, a teenage boy was arrested in the nearby Worle area at 6.19pm that same evening. He remains in police custody for questioning as a major investigation unfolds.
Community Reels from "Utterly Dreadful" News
Superintendent Jen Appleford of Avon and Somerset Police expressed the force's devastation. "We know the whole of Weston-super-Mare will be distraught and shocked to learn of this utterly dreadful news," she said. The Superintendent extended heartfelt condolences to the girl's family, confirming they are being supported by a specially trained officer.
She urged the public to avoid speculation out of respect for the family's immense grief. A formal identification and post-mortem examination are yet to be completed as part of the ongoing criminal investigation.
A police cordon remains in place on Lime Close, with officers conducting house-to-house enquiries. Supt Appleford assured residents that while there will be an increased police presence for reassurance, there is no known increased risk to public safety.
Local Residents Express Shock and Sorrow
The tight-knit community has been deeply affected by the incident. Local resident Glynis Field described the dramatic police response, stating, "I’ve never seen so many police cars in all my life, and ambulances, armed police."
In a poignant tribute, a young girl laid flowers at the scene with a note addressed to "Aria," thanking her for playing with her. Another long-term resident, Margaret Jones, shared her sadness, saying, "It saddens me… I find it sad that I may have spoken to her and known her."
Dan Aldridge, the Labour MP for Weston-super-Mare, described the event as a "devastating, utterly heartbreaking tragedy." He echoed police calls for privacy and no speculation, confirming his office is ready to support the family.
The investigation by Avon and Somerset Constabulary continues as they work to establish the full facts surrounding this deeply distressing case.
