A Worcestershire MP has urged people not to speculate after the ‘very sad death’ of an 11-year-old girl.
The body of an 11-year-old girl was found in Elmley Castle, near Pershore, after she was reported missing on Sunday evening as tributes continue to be left in her memory.
Her death is being treated as unexplained. Flowers, cards and messages of condolence have been left at a bench near where her body was found while a police cordon remains in place.
Dame Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, said she had been briefed by West Mercia Police about the incident, which happened over the weekend.
VOICE: Dame Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, has urged people not to speculate about the death of an 11-year-old girl in Elmley Castle (Image: House of Commons/PA Wire)
Dame Harriett Baldwin MP said: “I have been briefed by West Mercia Police which is investigating a tragic incident which occurred over the weekend in Elmley Castle. My thoughts are with the family and friends of the young girl who died and I offer my support to any constituent who needs it at this difficult time.”
She added: “There has been a great deal of media interest regarding this incident and I would encourage people not to speculate on this very sad matter. I am assured that once the facts are known, West Mercia Police will make a further statement.”
The girl was found dead in a park near a cricket ground in the village, after she was reported missing at about 11.20pm on Sunday.
GRIEF: The flowers and cards for ‘Mia’ left on a bench near where an 11-year-old girl was found dead (Image: Newsquest)
A small area of woodland near cricket practice nets remained behind a police cordon on Monday. Two uniformed officers were monitoring the area.
People have continued to visit a bench close to where the girl was found, leaving bouquets of flowers, cards and handwritten messages.
One card read: “Thinking of you and everyone who loves you. Rest gently. A local family xxx.”
Another message said: “To Mia. You have no idea how much I will miss you. You will always be a part of me and a part of heart. I love you so much and it will be so hard to cope without you. We’ve made so many mistakes but we have turned them into memories I can never forget. Rest in peace my sweet angel. You will be missed by everyone xxx.”
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A further note read: “Miya, If I knew it was the last time I hugged you, I would have hugged you longer. Rest in peace, angel.”
An officer at the scene said people had been coming throughout the day to leave flowers and cards. The cordon remains in place.
West Mercia Police said the circumstances of the death were not yet known.
Chief Inspector Daniel Pilkington said: “We know the death of a young girl will be deeply upsetting for the local community, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends at this time.
“Her death is currently being treated as unexplained, and we are carrying out enquiries to fully understand the circumstances and provide her family with the answers they deserve.
“We would also ask people not to speculate about the circumstances surrounding her death.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for her family, and I would urge everyone to be mindful of the impact that speculation could have on them.”
Police have said there will be an increased presence in Elmley Castle while the investigation continues.
The girl’s family continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
