Boy charged with murder of 9-year-old in Weston-super-Mare
The victim, Aria Thorpe, has been named and a 15-year-old boy has been charged with her murder
A 15-year-old boy has been charged following the death of nine-year-old Aria Thorpe in Weston-super-Mare.
The boy, who cannot be identified due to his age, has been remanded in custody and is expected to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court today, Wednesday 17th December.
Police said emergency services were called to an address in Lime Close shortly before 6.10pm on Monday 15th December.
Aria was found fatally injured, and a post-mortem examination revealed she died from a single stab wound.
The boy was arrested in Worle a short time later and has been charged with Aria’s murder. Formal identification of Aria has not yet been completed.
"Incredibly difficult time"
Superintendent Jen Appleford commented on the case, saying the investigation had ‘continued at pace’ since Monday evening.
“We can confirm a 15-year-old boy, who lives in Weston-super-Mare, has overnight been charged with murder,” Appleford said. “He is due to appear in court later today.”
Superintendent Appleford said officers are continuing to support Aria’s family.
“This remains an incredibly difficult time for Aria’s family, who we continue to support and update around our investigation,” she said. “It is impossible to adequately describe how traumatic the past 36 hours have been for them and we’d like to reiterate in the strongest possible terms their request for privacy.”
Weston-super-Mare residents are being urged to speak with officers in the area if they have concerns or questions.
“We are grateful to local residents for the patience shown while we have been carrying out enquiries in the area,” Appleford added. “This work will need to continue over the next few days, but if anyone has any issues then please do not hesitate to speak to officers on the cordon who will be happy to help.”
Schools and partner agencies are also working to ensure people affected by the tragedy have access to support.