A 14-year-old boy has appeared in court charged with the murder of schoolgirl Lilly Jones, also 14, who was found stabbed to death in a park. The last known footage of Lilly shows her running down a street in Blaina, South Wales, towards the park where her body was discovered two days later.
The doorbell security footage, timestamped around 6:50 p.m. on June 20, captures Lilly wearing a long black corset dress, matching the description given by police when she was reported missing. Her parents alerted authorities when she did not return home and her mobile phone was switched off, which was uncharacteristic.
An appeal for information on social media prompted a search by local residents, which was later joined by a police helicopter and drones. Lilly's body was found by members of the public in undergrowth within Pilgrims Park, approximately 50 yards from the town's Bowls club, late on Monday evening.
Witnesses who have seen the video described it as unsettling, with one parent noting that Lilly appeared to be trying to get away from someone. The footage shows her heading in the direction of the park.
The boy, who attends a different school, was arrested on Tuesday. He appeared before Newport Youth Court on Friday morning, speaking only to confirm his name, address, and date of birth. His mother was present during the brief hearing. The boy, who cannot be legally identified, will next appear before Cardiff Crown Court on Monday.
Forensic officers have been searching the boy's home in Blaina. Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas stated that while this is a significant development, the investigation is ongoing. Police presence will remain in the area, and examinations of scenes, including Pilgrims Park, will continue. He thanked local residents for their support and patience.