A teenager, aged 14, is set to stand trial for the alleged murder of Lilly Jones, a 14-year-old girl, after her body was discovered in a park in south Wales. The accused, whose identity is protected, appeared in Cardiff Crown Court to face the charges. The arrest was made following the finding of a body in the Duffryn Park area of Blaina in south Wales on June 22, with formal identification pending.
Lilly was last seen in High Street, Blaina, around 6:50 pm on June 20. Parts of Pilgrims Park near the A467 in Blaina were sealed off after the discovery of the body. The trial, scheduled to commence on November 23 and last for four weeks, was fixed by Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, the Recorder of Cardiff. A plea and trial preparation hearing is set for July 24.
The defendant, who did not enter a plea, was remanded in custody until the next court appearance. Floral tributes were left near the location where the body was found. Lilly, a student at Brynmawr Foundation School, was remembered fondly by the head teacher, Gerard McNamara, for her warm and kind-hearted personality.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas of Gwent Police expressed condolences to Lilly’s family and friends. He urged the public to be mindful of their language, especially online, to avoid hindering the ongoing investigation. Police presence in the area will continue as examinations of scenes, including Duffryn Park, are ongoing. Local residents were thanked for their support and patience during this challenging time.