A teenage boy, aged 14, is set to stand trial for the alleged murder of a young girl whose body was discovered in a park in south Wales.
The accused, whose identity is protected by law, appeared in front of Cardiff Crown Court on Monday to face charges related to the death of Lilly Jones, also 14 years old.
The arrest of the defendant followed the recovery of a body in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina, south Wales, on June 22, although formal identification procedures are still pending.
Lilly was last seen on June 20 in High Street, Blaina, around 6:50 pm. Following the grim discovery, sections of Pilgrims Park near the A467 in Blaina were sealed off by authorities.
Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, the Recorder of Cardiff, has scheduled the trial to commence on November 23, expected to span four weeks. A plea and trial preparation session is arranged for July 24.
The young defendant, who did not offer a plea to the murder accusation, has been detained in custody until the next court appearance.
Memorial tributes have been placed near the location where Lilly’s body was found.
Lilly, a student at Brynmawr Foundation School, was remembered by head teacher Gerard McNamara as a cherished member of the school community, known for her compassion, warmth, and lively spirit. The school is extending support to affected individuals with collaboration from relevant agencies.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas of Gwent Police expressed condolences to Lilly’s family and friends, urging the public to be mindful of their language, especially online, to not hinder the ongoing investigation. Police activities in the area will persist, with examinations of key locations, including Duffryn Park, ongoing.
