The family of Lilly Jones, a 14-year-old girl found dead in woodland near her home in Blaina, Gwent, Wales, has released a heartfelt tribute, remembering her as "the most beautiful, kind and caring little girl." The discovery was made three days after she was reported missing.
A teenage boy has been charged with her murder and appeared at Cardiff Crown Court. He has been remanded into secure youth accommodation pending further hearings.
Emergency services were called to Duffryn Park on the evening of June 22, where Lilly was pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination provisionally determined the cause of death as multiple stab wounds to the neck and trunk.
Lilly's family described her as "quirky and confident, sassy and dramatic," with an eclectic taste in music. "She is completely and utterly herself," the family stated, adding that they wished to focus on "what a beautiful person" Lilly was rather than the circumstances of her death. They expressed that the word "heartbroken" does not adequately describe their grief and acknowledged the "unimaginable hole" left in their lives and the community.
The family also thanked the community for their "never-ending support and donations." A memorial dedicated to Lilly in her hometown has already raised £20,000.
Gerard McNamara, headteacher of Brynmawr Foundation School, where Lilly was a pupil, said her loss "will be felt profoundly" by students and staff. He described her as a "valued member of our school community, known for her kindness, warmth, and bubbly personality." The school is providing support to those affected.
An inquest into Lilly's death has been opened but paused due to the ongoing criminal investigation. A provisional inquest date has been set for April 6, 2027, pending the conclusion of the police inquiry.
Detective Chief Inspector Steven Thomas urged the public to consider the impact of their comments, particularly online, on the ongoing investigation and the pursuit of justice.
Lilly was reported missing at 10:19 p.m. on June 20, and her body was discovered in woodland at 10:07 p.m. on June 22. The accused boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is scheduled to stand trial on November 23, with the trial expected to last four weeks.