The death of Miya Deamer-Jones, an 11-year-old schoolgirl whose body was discovered in a village park in Worcestershire, is not being treated as a criminal investigation, police have confirmed.
Miya was found in a park near Elmley Castle Cricket Club after she was reported missing late Sunday night. West Mercia Police stated that the death has been "deeply upsetting" and has "shocked the local community and touched the hearts of people far beyond it."
Officers conducted a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding Miya's death. According to the force, no evidence of suspicious circumstances or any third-party involvement has been found. Consequently, the case will now be passed to the coroner, who will review the circumstances in due course as part of the standard process.
Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington emphasized the profound loss experienced by Miya's family. "At the heart of this tragedy is a family who have lost a daughter and sister. Our thoughts remain with them, her friends and everyone who knew and loved her as they face an unimaginable loss," he said.
Pilkington acknowledged the community's desire for answers and the difficulty that uncertainty can create. "We understand that naturally people want answers when something so tragic happens, and that uncertainty can be difficult. Our officers have worked tirelessly and thoroughly to establish the circumstances surrounding her death. We have kept an open mind and examined all available lines of enquiry," he added.
The police force also issued a plea regarding online speculation, noting that while people often turn to social media during times of shock and sadness, unverified information can cause additional distress to the grieving family. "We would ask everyone to consider this impact carefully, and think of Miya’s family before posting online," the Chief Inspector urged.
Miya, who was one of four sisters, lived with her mother and at least one sibling in Elmley Castle. Neighbors described her as a "cheeky character" and a "happy girl," expressing their deep sorrow over the tragedy and extending their sympathies to her family, whom they described as "a really nice family."